Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 13 August 2024
In a landmark move towards digital governance, Ms. Jyoti Kumari, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Nicobar District, inaugurated three significant digital reforms aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency and accessibility for the residents of the Nicobar Islands. The new initiatives include the launch of a District Information System, Free Wi-Fi Access points, and an Online Booking System for Helicopter Tickets, Guest Houses, and Transit/Quarter Allotments.
The introduction of these services marks a pivotal shift in how residents of Car Nicobar, Nancowry, and Campbell Bay interact with government services, transitioning from manual to fully digital processes. With the digitisation of all administrative services and certificates, the district administration has set a new standard for efficiency, reducing the reliance on physical paperwork and making government services more accessible.
Free Wi-Fi Access for All:
One of the most significant aspects of this initiative is the provision of free Wi-Fi access. This service allows residents to connect to various online platforms without incurring data charges, thereby facilitating easier access to essential services and information. This move is expected to bridge the digital divide and empower the local population by making digital resources more readily available.
Comprehensive District Information System
The newly launched District Information System webpage is another cornerstone of this digital transformation. The platform offers a wide range of online services, making it easier for residents and visitors alike to access government portals and other essential information. This digital resource is a significant step towards a more transparent and responsive administration.
Streamlined Online Services
Among the most notable improvements are the new online systems for Helicopter Ticket Booking and Guest House/Transit/Quarter Allotments. Accessible through the URL: https://sites.google.com/view/dcnicobars/, these services allow citizens to submit applications and view passenger lists online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to administrative offices. The district’s website and sub-division offices now serve as comprehensive hubs for all relevant links and resources.
This transition to a paperless environment positions the Nicobar Deputy Commissioner’s Office as the first of its kind within the Andaman and Nicobar Administration. The digital model aligns with the administration’s goal of providing “Maximum Service with Limited Resources,” aiming to alleviate daily challenges faced by citizens and significantly enhance service efficiency.
Commitment to Expanding Digital Access
The Deputy Commissioner’s Office has reaffirmed its dedication to improving service delivery through technological advancements. With the successful launch of these digital services in Car Nicobar, the administration is now focused on extending these benefits to the more remote islands within the district. As part of this ongoing effort, a pilot project has been announced to introduce online services to the cut-off islands of Chowra, Katchal, and Teressa, ensuring that all residents have access to the same level of service.
Ms. Jyoti Kumari commended the team responsible for the in-house development of these digital reforms, highlighting the fact that these advancements were achieved without any financial implications. This achievement reflects the district administration’s commitment to innovation and efficiency.
The launch event was attended by Mr. Piyush Singh Vijaykaran, Assistant Commissioner (HQ), Mr. Anuj Kumar Bharti, Project Officer (ITDP), and other officers from various departments. Local tribal leaders expressed their gratitude to the Andaman and Nicobar Administration for addressing the challenges faced by the tribal communities and prioritising the development of Nicobar District.
With these reforms, the Nicobar District is set to become a model for digital governance within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, paving the way for a more connected and efficient administrative framework.