Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh addressed the 6th Capacity Building Programme for Officers of Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services, underscoring the importance of adopting a holistic approach to governance. He highlighted that the days of working in silos are behind us, and it is crucial for officers to collaborate and coordinate effectively across departments.
Identifying Common Schemes for Greater Efficiency
Dr. Jitendra Singh urged officers to identify schemes that share common objectives and themes and integrate their execution. By breaking down departmental barriers and promoting cross-functional collaboration, the administration can deliver more efficiently and effectively, ultimately benefiting the common citizens.
Changing Demographics and Technology
The Union Minister noted that technology, now accessible even in rural and remote areas, has significantly impacted the demographic profile of Central and State Civil Services. Consequently, candidates from states like Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu and Kashmir are emerging as toppers in the Central Civil Services examinations.
Prime Minister’s Emphasis on Governance Reforms
Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to governance reforms. Since taking office in 2014, numerous measures have been implemented to enhance transparency, accountability, and citizen-centricity in governance. These efforts aim to streamline the administration, making it more responsive to the needs of the people.
Focus on Transparency, Accountability, and Citizen-Centricity
The Minister emphasized that public policy in India is currently oriented toward enhancing transparency and accountability in governance, focusing on fiscal federalism, rural development, and improving the quality of public services. Digital advancements have played a pivotal role in providing grievance redressal mechanisms to citizens and simplifying administrative processes.
Digital India’s Transformative Impact
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the transformative impact of the Digital India program. It has bridged the gap between the government and citizens, delivering services transparently and free from corruption. Digital India aims to enhance the quality of life for every citizen, boost the digital economy, create investment and employment opportunities, and develop digital technological capabilities.
Ethics and Accountability in Civil Services
Dr. Jitendra Singh stressed that the new-age competency of civil servants must be rooted in ethics and accountability. The Government of India has adopted a “Zero Tolerance Approach to Corruption,” enhancing transparency, supervision, and penalties for misconduct. Strengthening the legislative and constitutional framework to combat corruption is a key focus, with mandatory annual asset declarations by civil servants.
Harnessing Technology for Inclusive Development
Secretary V. Srinivas of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) emphasized the role of technology in transforming citizens’ lives and achieving inclusive development. He urged officials to create a conceptual framework to meet the needs and expectations of the people, fostering holistic development in the state.
The 6th Capacity Building Programme, conducted by the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG), brings together officers from the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services. This training program aims to enhance their skills, promote collective learning, and improve the quality of life for the citizens they serve. It addresses the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of governance while nurturing a commitment to ethics and accountability.
