TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 21, 2024: Finance Minister Shri O.P. Choudhary emphasized the critical role of good governance in national development, stating that it not only fosters systematic growth but also improves the quality of life for citizens. Speaking at the inaugural session of a two-day regional conference on good governance in Nava Raipur, he highlighted the positive changes brought about by initiatives like Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, GST, and digital platforms such as the JAM Portal.
The conference, jointly organized by the Union Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions and Chhattisgarh’s Department of Good Governance and Convergence, brings together officers from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and other central ministries to discuss innovations, best practices, and citizen-centric governance initiatives.
In his address, Finance Minister Choudhary noted that bureaucrats play a pivotal role in realizing India’s goal of becoming a $55 trillion economy by 2047. He urged participants to embrace innovation and change, emphasizing that only those who adapt to evolving challenges will remain relevant in governance. “With the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is poised to become the third-largest economy, and states like Chhattisgarh will play a vital role in this growth,” Choudhary stated.
He also highlighted the role of effective innovations by various officials and collectors, particularly in areas of citizen service delivery, and called on Chhattisgarh officials to implement the innovative practices discussed at the conference to strengthen governance in the state.
Chief Secretary Shri Amitabh Jain added that good governance is measured by the satisfaction of citizens. He emphasized the importance of well-intentioned efforts and provided examples of significant governance innovations in Chhattisgarh, such as the formation of development authorities and the construction of key infrastructure projects like expressways.
Shri Puneet Yadav, Additional Secretary of the Central Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances Department, spoke about the department’s efforts in resolving public grievances using digital platforms, noting that these innovations are being recognized and rewarded at the national level.
The first session of the conference highlighted successful innovations in governance across four states. Shri Anurag Srivastava, Director of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Uttar Pradesh, shared insights into solar-based water supply schemes, which are expected to save significant costs and reduce carbon emissions. The Collector of Koraput, Odisha, Mr. V. Kirti Vasan, presented his district’s initiatives to provide employment through rural industrial complexes. Other innovations included the introduction of a Chief Minister Health Insurance Scheme in Nagaland and the implementation of a ‘Sampada’ portal for digital land registration in Madhya Pradesh.
The regional conference continues to explore and recognize innovations that contribute to effective and people-oriented governance across the country.
