Srinagar: In a significant milestone in the realm of e-governance, Jammu and Kashmir has achieved a remarkable feat by offering more than 1028 services online for its citizens, institutions, and business establishments.
This achievement, unveiled in the National e-services Delivery Assessment (NeSDA) report by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Government of India, catapults Jammu and Kashmir to the topmost position among all states and union territories in India, outperforming states like Madhya Pradesh and Kerala.
This accomplishment underscores the region’s commitment to leveraging technology for efficient and transparent governance. The NeSDA report, which evaluates the digitization of government services across the country, has become a benchmark for assessing the effectiveness of e-governance initiatives.
“Jammu and Kashmir’s ascension to the summit of this report reflects the UT’s unwavering dedication to adopting innovative and inclusive approaches in delivering essential services to its residents,” an official told Precious Kashmir.
“The provision of over 1028 e-services is a testament to the UT’s comprehensive approach to e-governance. These services span a wide array of sectors, including healthcare, education, land records, revenue, and municipal administration, among others. Citizens, institutions, and business establishments can now access and avail of these services from the comfort of their homes or offices, eliminating the need for cumbersome, time-consuming visits to government offices,” he added.
Pertinently, one of the most commendable aspects of Jammu and Kashmir’s e-governance initiative is its inclusivity. The online services are designed to cater to a diverse range of stakeholders, from individual citizens seeking certificates and documents to businesses looking to secure permits and licenses. This inclusivity not only streamlines processes but also fosters a more equitable and accessible system of governance.
“J&K’s commitment to e-governance has the potential to drive economic growth. By simplifying bureaucratic processes and reducing red tape, J&K has attracted more investments, boosted entrepreneurship, and facilitated ease of doing business. This is especially significant for a region which has immense untapped economic potential,” the official said.
“The achievement of Jammu and Kashmir in the NeSDA report is not just about the number of e-services but also about the quality and efficiency of these services. The state has shown a commitment to improving service delivery and reducing bureaucratic hurdles through technology. This commitment aligns with the broader national goals of achieving a more digitized and transparent governance system,” he added.
An observer said, “While Jammu and Kashmir’s achievement is undoubtedly laudable, it should also serve as an inspiration for other states and union territories. E-governance has the potential to revolutionize governance in India by making services more citizen-centric, efficient, and accountable. States that embrace this change can not only enhance their citizens’ lives but also improve their overall administrative effectiveness.”
