Deputy Chief Minister stresses digital revolution for expanding public services

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri emphasized the vital role of digital technology in making government services more accessible and efficient across Himachal Pradesh. He was speaking at the inauguration of a one-day conference organized by the Department of Digital Technology and Governance at the Skill Development Center at Palakwah in District Una today.

The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the need to develop a statewide policy that incorporates digital systems in temple services, including arrangements for online darshan and donations. He said that it would help improve public access to religious services and streamline operations in temples of the state.

He said that the conference focused on generating employment through digital technology and enhancing public services. It brought together officials from various government departments, IT experts, entrepreneurs and representatives from educational institutions. He said that citizen-focused digital applications and the use of emerging technologies for the state's development were also discussed in detail.

Sh. Agnihotri while highlighting the potential of drone technology called for coordinated efforts to bring innovations in this field, particularly to serve rural areas. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing drone services for delivering essential supplies like medicines to remote regions and encouraged local drone manufacturing to reduce reliance on imports. He also proposed short-term drone pilot training programmes for youth. He suggested that IIT Una could offer short-term courses for students for pilot training courses.

The Deputy Chief Minister further underscored the need to ensure digital advancements to benefit the common people, particularly in rural areas and urged for the establishment of more Lokmitra Kendras where needed. He said that digital revolution was meaningful only when it simplifies public services for common masses. He also praised the introduction of cashless travel in HRTC buses, allowing passengers to pay fares through digital applications.

Mukesh Agnihotri said that it was due to efforts and hard work of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi that have lead to revolution of computer era in India. It was his vision which laid the foundation for the country's growth in information technology. He said that despite initial opposition, this revolution has transformed public services and brought the country to the forefront of the global digital landscape.

He called on the district administration to organize more innovative programmes in Una to provide technical education for youth. He said that these initiatives would prepare our children for future employment opportunities. He also advocated for introducing digital technology upto the Panchayat level to improve access to information regarding the schemes started by the government.

In a significant move towards enhancing security and connectivity, it was announced that Haroli will soon be the first assembly constituency in the state to be fully equipped with CCTV cameras. This initiative aims to strengthen security measures in the area. Furthermore, efforts are underway to ensure complete internet connectivity throughout Haroli, enabling seamless access to various online services for the public.

Secretary of the Digital Technology and Governance Department Dr. Abhishek Jain reaffirmed the government's commitment to harnessing the power of digital technology for the benefit of all citizens. He highlighted that the IT Park at Dharamshala (Chauntra) is now ready, while the construction of the IT Park in Shimla (Mehli) is nearing completion. Additionally, the development of the Centre of Excellence for IT at Vaknaghat is progressing steadily.

The Director of the Digital Technology and Governance, Nipun Jindal further outlined the department's ongoing initiatives and achievements in advancing digital infrastructure in the state. He said that at present the department was providing 251 services under e-district project and soon 40 more services would be made available to the public.

Director IIT Una Prof, Manish Gaur, Deputy Commissioner Una Jatin Lal, IT Officer Bajaj Finance Anurag Jain and senior officials of Digital Technology and Governance Department and other dignitaries was present on the occasion.