In a resolute bid to fortify transparency and efficiency within the public service framework, the Government of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has taken a decisive stance by initiating disciplinary measures against officials exhibiting laxity in the rigorous enforcement of the Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011. The Chief Secretary’s office has, in this vein, formally requisitioned comprehensive details from the General Administration Department (GAD) to facilitate this stringent course of action. The Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011 stands as a pioneering legislative milestone, mandating the punctual delivery of diverse Government services to the citizenry. Its overarching objectives encompass the promotion of transparency, accountability, and efficacy in the operational paradigms of Governmental departments.
Not long ago, the realisation of e-governance was merely a dream; however, consistent efforts by the Government have transformed this dream into a national reality. From office appointments to Aadhaar card issuance, gas bookings, and airport check-ins, numerous services have seamlessly transitioned into the digital realm, complete with effective feedback mechanisms. The story is no different in the banking sector, where contactless cash deposits and digital payment methods have become standard practices. The digital revolution has significantly streamlined daily life, defying adequate description with words. Jammu and Kashmir has not lagged behind in this transformative journey. The annual darbar moves are no more, replaced by various online portals facilitating official work in a digital mode. Hundreds of services have been brought under the Public Service Guarantee Act (PSGA), ensuring the provision of hassle-free services. The introduction of e-UNNAT (Jan Sugam) has been a boon for the public, delivering services within stipulated timelines. The Rapid Assessment System (RAS) collects feedback on service satisfaction levels. The Administration, driven by a commitment to public service, has not only digitized these services but also placed them under automatic appeal mode. Set timelines for each service to ensure automatic escalation in case of delays, discouraging corruption and malpractice. The Administration’s commitment to transparency is evident in its avoidance of covert and stagnant methods. All online services now operate in automatic appeal mode, effectively checking for corruption and ensuring fairness. The achieved results are encouraging; however, there are always bottlenecks and black sheep within the system.
The Chief Secretary, exemplifying an unwavering commitment to administrative probity, has mandated the GAD to compile a comprehensive roster of officers perennially failing to dispense stipulated services. The malaise is notably pervasive in many departments, with the Revenue Department leading the pack, where a staggering 57 Revenue Tehsils languish in unwarranted delays in the delivery of online revenue services. This conspicuous issue has prompted an unambiguous directive, compelling officials to issue notices, extract explanations for the protracted delays, and institute necessary actions in consonance with the stringent provisions enshrined in the Public Services Guarantee Act, 2011.
The procedural efficacy of the Public Services Guarantee Act, 2011, unfolds as a formidable arsenal in this crusade against administrative lethargy. The hierarchical apparatus of the first and second appellate authorities is meticulously delineated, and any deviation from the prescribed duties carries an implicit mandate for explanation and subsequent disciplinary proceedings under the aegis of the pertinent service rules. The Chief Secretary, emblematic of the paramount authority within bureaucratic echelons, manifests an assertive and proactive stance, underscoring the administration’s solemnity in rectifying this lacuna. The focal point remains unwaveringly on service delivery to the citizenry, and any transgression of this cardinal objective is poised to elicit resolute disciplinary repercussions. The unequivocal message, once translated into concrete actions, promises to reverberate as a formidable deterrent, casting a looming shadow over potential transgressors.
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