2.3 lakh premises covered under GIS mapping: Athar
Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Sept 4: Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta today stated that digital governance is the new paradigm in J&K, emphasizing that digitization represents genuine empowerment through which power shifts from officers to the people.
Speaking at an event organized in Lal Chowk as part of ‘Digital Week,’ which focused on digital governance, Mehta stressed the significance of transferring power from officers to the people, characterizing it as “the true empowerment of the people.”
Noting the advantages of transitioning to digitization, he mentioned the successful completion of nearly 92,000 projects during the fiscal year 2022-23, surpassing previous years’ figures.
“Those with ill intentions oppose digitization, but those striving for the betterment of both the people and the overall system will never oppose it,” firmly stated Mehta.
He reiterated that digital governance is the new mantra in J&K and will play a pivotal role in preparing the region for the future. “Digitization is integral to our journey towards a brighter future. Our team in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the people, is fully committed to digital transformation. We are entirely digital and will continue to expand in this direction.”
Mehta highlighted the convenience of digital services, stating, “There is no need to visit offices when services are available on phones. People can make requests from their homes, and they will receive the services they need.”
He further emphasized that the government is pursuing a governance model rooted in systematic approaches and efficient delivery mechanisms, which represents the most effective path toward progress. “We are aiming for a system-based and delivery-based governance, which is the best possible way to propel J&K forward.”
The Chief Secretary also acknowledged the significant impact of digitization, emphasizing that the people of the UT have always been open to change.
“Digitization has made a tremendous difference. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are not resistant to change; they are the best people you can work with. I can say this with authority because I have the maximum experience in J&K.”
As J&K has emerged as one of the top performers in digital online services, providing the highest number of services, Mehta stated that efforts are being made to reach out to the people and familiarize them with digital initiatives, making it easier for them to access digital services.
During the occasion, Athar Amir, CEO of Srinagar Smart City Ltd, joined the Chief Secretary in sharing insights into the digitization process, with a focus on the implementation of QR coding for houses and premises in Srinagar.
Amir explained, “The QR coding of houses and premises will streamline a better system of governance and delivery in Srinagar. We are adopting the same addressing pattern as metropolitan cities, making it easier to identify locations.”
He noted that GIS mapping in Srinagar has been completed, covering 230,000 houses and premises. “Each house and premise will be assigned a unique digital number, displayed on QR metal boards, making location identification convenient. This QR coding system will significantly enhance governance planning and delivery in the district.”
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