Bhubaneswar: Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has issued a directive to ensure the timely delivery of public services under the Odisha Right to Public Service Act (ORTPSA).
This initiative, implemented through various departments, aims to strengthen good governance and ensure essential services are readily accessible to citizens.
In a detailed letter to department Secretaries, Revenue Divisional Commissioners, and District Collectors, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of delivering 428 public services across 32 departments within the prescribed timeline. He stressed that timely service delivery is a cornerstone of effective governance, reinforcing the government’s commitment to bringing services to citizens’ doorsteps.
Department heads have been instructed to assess the current status of service delivery and address any delays or lapses. Accountability will be fixed on officials failing to meet timelines. To streamline operations, all departments have been directed to undertake Government Process Reengineering (GPR) for the notified services, ensuring smoother delivery mechanisms.
A Senior Officer from each department has been designated as the Nodal Officer under the ORTPSA to monitor the implementation process. Additionally, Secretaries are required to conduct random checks during field visits to verify whether services are being delivered on time. Reports on timely and delayed service delivery are to be submitted, and the percentage of compliance will be tracked.
Monthly reviews of service delivery achievements will be conducted at both department and district levels. Collectors have been tasked with prioritizing the review of their districts’ performance to ensure adherence to the ORTPSA timelines.
The Act provides citizens a mechanism for redressal if services are delayed or denied. Initially, complaints can be filed with the Appellate Authority, and if unresolved, escalated to the Revisional Authority.
Chief Secretary Ahuja underscored that these instructions should be executed with sincerity and in the spirit of ensuring citizens’ rights to timely and effective services. The initiative is a step forward in enhancing accountability and ensuring good governance across Odisha.
