Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Unveils New Tools for Enhanced Public Service Delivery
In a move aimed at transforming public service delivery across Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma introduced several landmark initiatives during an event held at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra, Guwahati. These reforms promise to bring efficiency, transparency, and speed to crucial government processes, signaling a new era of citizen-centric governance.
Escalation Matrix: Streamlining Public Service Delivery
One of the central features of this ambitious initiative is the Escalation Matrix, which is designed to fast-track the resolution of public grievances under the Assam Right to Public Services (ARTPS) Act. This mechanism sets strict timelines for addressing service-related issues, ensuring that delays are minimized and accountability is enforced across departments. This step is expected to dramatically improve the quality of public service, bringing much-needed relief to citizens facing bureaucratic delays.
e-Chitha and Land Valuation Certificate: Bringing Transparency to Land Transactions
The Chief Minister also launched e-Chitha, a revolutionary platform that offers transparency in land transactions. Accessible via the Sewa Setu portal, this tool allows individuals to verify the ownership history of any land in Assam, providing a transparent and efficient system for land buyers and sellers. In addition, the introduction of the Land Valuation Certificate simplifies the process of obtaining accurate land value information, making land transactions smoother and less prone to fraud or disputes.
Alongside these public service initiatives, Sarma introduced the Community Response Portal of the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA). This platform aims to enhance coordination during disaster relief operations by facilitating communication between NGOs, volunteers, and government agencies. During natural disasters such as floods, this portal will allow for swift and effective mobilization of resources to assist affected communities, thereby strengthening Assam’s disaster preparedness.
Mission Basundhara 3.0: Empowering Indigenous People with Land Rights
The spotlight of the event was on Mission Basundhara 3.0, set to launch on October 2, 2024. Building on the overwhelming success of Mission Basundhara 1.0 and 2.0, which collectively benefitted over 10 lakh landless indigenous people, this phase will address unresolved land settlement issues from previous missions. Sarma explained that this initiative will prioritize securing land rights for communities that have lived on the land for at least three generations.
However, special exceptions will be made for “protected classes,” such as tea tribes, Adivasis, Gorkhas, and six ethnic groups, who will not be required to meet the three-generation residency rule. This policy aims to empower these communities with legal land ownership and provide them with much-needed security.
Mission Basundhara 3.0 will also focus on land claims for educational institutions such as colleges and universities. By facilitating land ownership for these institutions, the Assam government seeks to boost educational infrastructure across the state, contributing to long-term development goals. Additionally, Sarma announced a significant reduction in premium rates for those who could not regularize their land during Mission Basundhara 2.0 due to high costs. This move will ease the financial burden on citizens in urban areas, allowing them to formalize their land ownership at lower premiums.
Recognizing Excellence: Flood Preparedness Score Cards
The event also witnessed the Chief Minister recognizing the exceptional work done by various districts and departments in flood preparedness. Using the Flood Preparedness Score Cards (FPSC) as a benchmark, districts like Morigaon and Nalbari were lauded for their top-ranking performance in flood management, with Cachar district securing second place, and Golaghat and Majuli tying for third. On the departmental front, the Women and Child Development Department earned the top spot for its role in disaster preparedness, followed by the Water Resources, Education, and PWD Roads departments.
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) was ranked third overall for its contribution to effective disaster management and flood relief efforts.
Sarma’s Vision: Securing Assam’s Future
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the importance of these public service initiatives in securing the future of Assam. He explained that Mission Basundhara 3.0 would not only address land rights issues but also support the state’s long-term goal of ensuring land security for its indigenous population. Moreover, the introduction of tools like the Escalation Matrix, e-Chitha, and Land Valuation Certificate will help reduce red tape, bringing transparency and efficiency to crucial services such as land ownership and disaster response.
Sarma highlighted the innovative nature of the Community Response Portal, pointing out that it would drastically improve the coordination between agencies during times of crisis, making Assam more resilient in the face of disasters. He also reaffirmed his commitment to public service delivery, expressing confidence that these measures would create a lasting impact on the lives of Assam’s citizens.
A Step Toward a Modern Assam
These new initiatives signify a monumental step toward modernizing public service delivery in Assam. From land rights to disaster management, the Chief Minister’s reforms are aimed at building a transparent, efficient, and responsive government that works for the people. The introduction of digital platforms and streamlined processes ensures that citizens receive prompt services, reducing the traditional bureaucratic hurdles.
With Mission Basundhara 3.0 set to launch in October 2024, the state is on the path to resolving long-standing land settlement issues, particularly for marginalized communities. Assam’s continued focus on land rights and public service reforms showcases its commitment to progress, promising a better future for its people.
The newly introduced services, alongside the recognition of excellence in flood preparedness, are just the beginning of Assam’s journey toward a more transparent, efficient, and citizen-friendly administration.
Also Read: Nrityangahara Presents ‘Lavanya’: A Grand Celebration of Young Artistes in Folk Dance and Music
