In a move aimed at revolutionising access to Government-to-Citizen (G2C) services, the Punjab Government is all set introduce the Door-Step Delivery (DSD) initiative beginning December 7.
This service will bring 42 crucial G2C services, including certificates for birth, death, income, residence, caste, pension, and electricity bill payments, directly to the doorsteps of citizens across the state.
Read More: Bengaluru Schools Get Bomb Threat On Mail, Students Evacuated
These essential services, accounting for 99% of the massive volume of 1.16 crore transactions in 2022, will now be available at citizens’ convenience, in line with the Bhagwant Mann Government’s “Sarkar Twade Dwar” scheme.
The process is simple: citizens can request the service by dialing the dedicated helpline number 1076 and scheduling a convenient appointment. A call center, akin to the one used for Delhi Door-Step Delivery, handles these appointments. Upon scheduling, citizens will receive an SMS detailing necessary documents and the appointment date and time.
Read More: Lending rates rise faster than deposit rates in October
A nominal charge of Rs. 120, encompassing the visit to the citizen’s location and the return of certificates, is applicable. Additionally, government fees and charges specific to the service availed will be collected. Specially trained personnel equipped with tablets will visit homes or offices at the scheduled time, complete paperwork, collect fees, and provide an acknowledgment receipt for application tracking.
Upon approval within the prescribed timeline under the Punjab Transparency and Accountability in Delivery of Public Services Act, citizens will receive a digitally signed QR Coded certificate on their mobile phones. A hard copy of the certificate will be delivered to their homes.
Read More: India’s manufacturing growth rises in November, maintains strong momentum
A government spokesman said the initiative not only enhances convenience but also eliminates middlemen, fostering transparency, efficiency, and citizen-centric governance. A pilot in Sangrur is underway to iron out any potential issues, to ensure a smooth rollout.
The spokesman said the appointment of a new service operator for Sewa Kendras is projected to save over Rs. 200 crore in the coming five years. The new operator will commence operations from December 1, with the DSD Service integrating into Sewa Kendras starting December 7, 2023.
Starting from December 7, citizens will be able to access the DSD Service through both Sewa Kendras and the dedicated helpline number.
