Omar Abdullah Charts Path for Responsive Governance: Comprehensive Review of GAD Operations and Launch of Citizen-Centric ‘Raabta’ Interface.

Ban on re-employment, extensions, additional charges, and attachments.

||Black and White Digital News||

||December 04,2024 ||

JAMMU : In a decisive step towards reforming the administrative framework of Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today presided over a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat to meticulously review the functioning of the General Administration Department (GAD). The meeting witnessed in-depth discussions on critical issues ranging from cadre management to innovative governance initiatives, reflecting the government’s resolve to streamline operations and enhance citizen participation.

Overhauling Administrative Practices:

The Chief Minister, flanked by key officials, delved into the working of the J&K Public Service Commission, the J&K Service Selection Board, promotions, transfers, and other administrative matters. A particular emphasis was placed on addressing stagnation among JKAS officers.

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to grow,” Omar asserted, directing GAD to formulate actionable solutions to promote career advancement and improve morale within the administrative ranks.

In a bid to ensure efficient governance, he declared a strict ban on re-employment, extensions, additional charges, and attachments except under extraordinary circumstances. Specific attention was given to reviewing attachments in critical sectors like Health & Medical Education and Education Departments.

“We must put an end to this practice,” he emphasized.

Focus on Migrant Employees and IT Integration:

The Chief Minister inquired about the performance and welfare of employees recruited under the Prime Minister’s package for Kashmiri Migrants, highlighting the importance of their role in government operations.

Commissioner/Secretary GAD, Sanjeev Verma, provided a detailed overview of administrative functioning, touching on key areas like cadre management, SRO-43 compassionate appointments, and the J&K Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme-2022. Discussions also included IT-driven initiatives like SPARROW, JKHRMS, and officer training programs aimed at modernizing administrative practices.

One major area of focus was the post-reorganization redistribution of administrative posts between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

“The distribution of posts following the reorganization must be looked into. We need to address disparities and ensure that Jammu and Kashmir has adequate posts to meet administrative demands,” Omar stressed.

Introducing ‘Raabta’: A New Era in Public Service Delivery:

In a parallel meeting, the Chief Minister reviewed the establishment of Raabta—the CM’s Public Services and Outreach Office. Aimed at creating a seamless interface between the government and citizens, Raabta promises to revolutionize grievance redressal and public participation in governance.

“Raabta will serve as a bridge between the Government and the people, ensuring timely delivery of public services and enhancing public participation in governance,” Omar said, underlining the transformative potential of the initiative.

The proposed platform will integrate with the existing JK Samadhan grievance redressal system to provide a unified interface for submitting complaints and suggestions both online and offline. Secretary Grievances, Aijaz Asad, detailed the framework of Raabta, highlighting its role in empowering citizens and fostering a responsive administration.

BISAG’s Additional Director General assured the Chief Minister that the integration process is progressing swiftly and will soon be operational, offering the public a streamlined grievance resolution experience.

Commitment to Reforms:

The high-level meetings, attended by top officials including Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, and Principal Secretary IT, reflected a cohesive approach to governance. The Chief Minister’s directives showcased his commitment to modernizing the administrative apparatus while ensuring that governance remains rooted in public service.

With the launch of Raabta and a renewed focus on administrative efficiency, Omar Abdullah has set the stage for a more dynamic, accountable, and citizen-centric government in Jammu and Kashmir.