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With a focus on leveraging technology, transparency, and community engagement, Odisha has implemented innovative strategies for inclusive growth and efficient public service delivery. Shri C.J. Venugopal, IAS, Member of the Board of Revenue and Chief Administrator, KBK Region, Government of Odisha, discusses the state’s transformative strides in digital governance, cybersecurity, and infrastructure development in an exclusive interview with Dr. Ravi Gupta, CEO, Elets Technomedia & Editor-in-Chief, eGov Magazine.

Edited Excerpts:

As government services move online, cybersecurity becomes a significant concern. What strategies has your administration implemented to safeguard sensitive information and ensure the integrity of digital platforms?

The Odisha government has implemented several strategies to safeguard sensitive information and ensure the integrity of digital platforms:

CERT-In Cyber Security Audit: The government has conducted CERT-In cybersecurity audits for various initiatives, such as the Krushak Odisha portal, to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Cyber Safety Campaign: In 2023, Odisha Police launched a Cyber Safety Campaign, including a unique logo, mascot, and awareness programs to educate citizens about online safety and security.

Cyber Security Guidelines: The government has established cybersecurity guidelines for employees, outlining best practices to protect sensitive information and prevent cyber threats. The Odisha Cyber Security Policy focuses on creating a robust cyber ecosystem for secure online transactions and safeguarding citizens’ identity, privacy, and finances.

National Cyber Security Policy Compliance: Odisha aligns with India’s National Cyber Security Policy, ensuring a secure cyber ecosystem and the protection of critical information infrastructure.

CERT-O and C-SOC Establishments: The state has established CERT-O and C-SOC to enhance cybersecurity readiness and response capabilities.

Cyber Crime Helpline: A 24/7 cybercrime helpline (1930) has been set up to report and address cybercrime incidents promptly.

National Forensic Science University Campus: The state is establishing a dedicated campus to train cybersecurity professionals and police officers, further strengthening its cybersecurity framework.

The Smart Surveillance System aims to create a transparent and hassle-free land registration process. How has the integration of CCTV systems across 213 sub-registrar offices and 30 district DM and ADM offices impacted the efficiency and security of land registration so far?

The integration of CCTV systems across 213 sub-registrar offices and 30 district DM and ADM offices in Odisha has significantly enhanced the efficiency, transparency, and security of the land registration process. The Smart Surveillance System promotes greater transparency by reducing the likelihood of fraudulent activities, as real-time monitoring through CCTV cameras enables authorities to promptly address discrepancies. Efficiency has also improved, with the registration process now more streamlined—deed registration is completed in just 30 minutes, and encumbrance certificates are issued on the same day.

Odisha Revenue Department Unveils New Control Room (November 2024)

Additionally, the system has bolstered security, ensuring the safety of citizens, staff, and visitors within registration offices. Regular monitoring and audits further ensure smooth operations and the optimal functionality of surveillance systems. Overall, the integration of CCTV systems represents a transformative step in creating a more transparent, efficient, and secure land registration process in Odisha.

What further enhancements or features are planned for the Smart Surveillance System to make it even more effective in ensuring public safety and service delivery?

The Odisha government is continuously working to enhance the Smart Surveillance System to ensure public safety and efficient service delivery.

Some potential enhancements include:

• Integration with other systems: The government may integrate the Smart Surveillance System with existing systems, such as the police department’s surveillance network, to create a more comprehensive and efficient framework.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities: The system could be upgraded with AI and ML to enable real-time monitoring, automatic alerts, and predictive analytics for crime prevention.
• Expansion to more areas: The system might be extended to cover additional public spaces, markets, and critical infrastructure.
• Enhanced cybersecurity measures: To ensure system integrity, the government plans to implement measures like encryption, firewalls, and regular security audits.
• Public awareness and education: Public campaigns could educate citizens about the system’s benefits and promote its usage.

These enhancements aim to further strengthen the Smart Surveillance System, ensuring greater public safety and efficient service delivery across Odisha.

Collaborations between the government and private sector can accelerate digital transformation. Could you discuss any successful PPPs in Odisha’s digital initiatives and their impact?

Odisha has been at the forefront of digital transformation, with Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) playing a key role in this progress. Some successful PPPs in Odisha’s digital initiatives include:

Affordable Healthcare Projects: Collaborations with private companies have enabled affordable healthcare projects in districts such as Angul, Barbil, Bhadrak, and Jharsuguda.

Advanced Training Institute Development: A partnership with private entities led to the establishment of an Advanced Training Institute (ATI) in Jatni, offering skill-based training.

Bulk Water Supply Project: The PPP model has been adopted to ensure a clean drinking water supply in Bhubaneswar.

Odisha One Portal: A single-window platform providing access to multiple government services, developed and maintained in collaboration with private sector partners.

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These PPPs have significantly impacted Odisha’s digital transformation by enhancing the efficiency and transparency of government services, fostering accountability, and improving citizen engagement and participation.

Odisha focuses on technology and transparency. Can you share examples of how this framework has been applied in your departments and the tangible outcomes achieved?

The Odisha government is steadfast in its commitment to transformative governance, leveraging technology and transparency through the innovative 5T framework. This approach has been effectively implemented across the Board of Revenue departments, driving impactful changes. By fostering inter-departmental collaboration, the government has partnered with IT and other departments to harness expertise for innovative initiatives. Employee training programs have been organized to build capacity and ensure efficient service delivery. Modernizing land records through an online system has provided citizens with easy access, minimizing the need for physical office visits.

The implementation of e-office systems has streamlined file management, reducing paperwork and improving overall efficiency. Citizen-centric services have been enhanced with the launch of online applications and tracking systems, promoting transparency and accountability. Public grievance redressal mechanisms allow citizens to submit and track complaints online, ensuring a responsive administration. Simplified procedures through process re-engineering have reduced unnecessary steps, improving operational efficiency. Digital literacy programs have empowered rural citizens to access and use online services, bridging the digital divide. Time-bound service delivery mechanisms ensure that citizens receive services within stipulated timelines, while performance monitoring and evaluation track progress to guarantee timely completion of projects. These initiatives collectively highlight Odisha’s dedication to modernizing governance and improving public service delivery.

Tangible Outcomes Achieved:

• Improved service delivery: Enhanced citizen experience with time-bound and efficient services.
• Increased transparency and accountability: Online tracking systems and grievance redressal mechanisms promote trust.
• Enhanced efficiency: Reduced paperwork and improved workflows through e-office and digital literacy initiatives.
• Better decision-making: Data-driven insights and performance monitoring improve governance outcomes.

The KBK region, being predominantly tribal, presents unique challenges. How have you approached infrastructure development in this area, and what strategies have proven most effective in addressing these challenges?

The KBK (Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput) region, with its predominantly tribal population, presents distinct challenges. The Odisha government has adopted a multi-faceted approach:

Infrastructure Development Strategies:

• Community-led development: Empowering locals to take ownership of projects to align with their priorities.
• Participatory planning: Involving tribal communities to ensure cultural sensitivity and relevance.
• Context-specific design: Adapting projects to local geography, climate, and culture.
• Capacity building: Training communities to manage and maintain infrastructure.
• Convergence of schemes: Aligning government programs to maximize impact and avoid duplication.

Effective Strategies:

• Decentralized planning: Enabling local decision-making for responsive development.
• Collaboration with NGOs: Leveraging local expertise and community connections.
• Local materials and labour: Using local resources to generate employment and boost economies.
• Innovative financing models: Exploring PPPs and community financing for resources.
• Monitoring and evaluation: Ensuring projects are on track and responsive to challenges.

Key Initiatives:

• KBK Highway: Upgraded connectivity for economic development.
• Rural roads and bridges: Improved access to services.
• Irrigation projects: Supporting agriculture and livelihoods.
• Renewable energy: Expanding solar power access.
• Telecom infrastructure: Strengthening digital connectivity.

Looking ahead, what are your key priorities for Odisha’s development in the next five years? How do you plan to address emerging challenges and capitalize on new opportunities?

Odisha’s developmental priorities for the next five years emphasise inclusive growth, infrastructure development, and capacity building to ensure sustainable progress. The state aims to bridge income gaps, scale agricultural productivity, mitigate the impact of natural calamities, and advance underserved regions, promoting equitable development. Upgrading rural and urban infrastructure, including roads, bridges, irrigation systems, and ports, is a key focus to enhance connectivity and drive economic growth. Odisha also prioritises education and skill development by strengthening social security, establishing medical colleges, and fostering public-private partnerships (PPPs) to improve educational outcomes.

Smart Class in Odisha’s Government School

To address emerging challenges, the state is committed to building resilience against natural disasters and promoting eco-friendly practices to reduce its carbon footprint. Odisha also seeks to capitalise on its unique opportunities by leveraging cultural and natural assets to boost tourism, generate employment, and support entrepreneurship. Encouraging MSMEs and start-ups to foster innovation and drive economic growth is central to this strategy. This holistic approach emphasizes inclusive development, leveraging Odisha’s inherent strengths while proactively addressing challenges to achieve sustainable and equitable growth.

Shri C.J. Venugopal, I.A.S, 

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