Deputy Chief Minister stresses digital revolution for expanding public services

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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.