Synopsis
The Gujarat Administrative Reforms Commission has proposed ten significant reforms aimed at enhancing public service delivery through digital means, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and ease of access.Key Takeaways
- Ten major reforms proposed by GARC.
- Focus on citizen-centric service delivery.
- Enhanced user-friendliness for government websites.
- Single sign-on system for easy access to services.
- Knowledge Transfer Protocol for outgoing employees.
Gandhinagar, April 25 (NationPress) The Gujarat Administrative Reforms Commission (GARC) has presented its second recommendation report to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, outlining ten significant citizen-focused reforms aimed at bolstering public service delivery through digital integration.
According to official reports, these recommendations revolve around the theme of ‘Government at Your Doorstep’ and strive to improve transparency, accountability, and ease of access to government services. One of the primary proposals includes overhauling all government websites to enhance their user-friendliness, accessibility, and security.
GARC has established a deadline of August 2025 for all government websites to align with the Government of India’s Guidelines for Indian Government Websites (GIGW 3.0).
To facilitate timely and effective service delivery, the Commission has also recommended enhancing the Citizen Charter. Departments must clearly articulate the services they provide, expected delivery timelines, grievance redressal procedures, and accountability mechanisms with a citizen-first approach.
In an effort to streamline access to government schemes, GARC has advised the creation of a single sign-on system for all government services.
This will allow citizens to access various schemes and services from a single platform without the need to repeatedly enter the same personal information. Furthermore, a QR-based verification system is proposed to validate government-issued certificates, licenses, and approvals, thereby ensuring greater transparency.
The report advocates for the integration of grievance redressal platforms by enhancing the existing SWAGAT system.
Citizens will be able to file complaints through multiple channels, including email, WhatsApp, phone calls, and online portals.
To maintain institutional knowledge, GARC recommends implementing a Knowledge Transfer Protocol.
Under this protocol, outgoing government employees—whether retiring or being transferred—will be required to document their work and pass it on to their successors. Departments will also create multimedia content under a ‘Know Your Department’ initiative to better educate citizens about their functions.
The report also addresses administrative efficiency.
It suggests establishing a streamlined protocol for disposing of old government vehicles and unused furniture in public offices within a six-month timeframe.
Additionally, to improve productivity and promote a healthy work-life balance, GARC has proposed standardizing office hours—from 9.30 a.m. to 5.10 p.m.—for all government departments, excluding educational institutions.
