Kathmandu: The government has issued an ‘Action Plan on Immediate Reform of Public Service, 2083 BS’. The action plan aims to make the public service delivery prompt, accessible, transparent, and civic-friendly.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the document issued on Friday by the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers (OPMCM) in accordance with the Chief Secretary-level decision is to be implemented by all ministries, secretariats, offices, and the Office of Chief Minister and Council of Ministers. A circular to this end has already been issued to the respective bodies.
Hem Raj Aryal, OPMCM spokesperson and joint-secretary, stated that the action plan is meant for identifying existing issues in service delivery and undertaking reformative measures with financial discipline. Key priorities include ending unnecessary office visits for service seekers, providing clear information on necessary documents and procedures, reducing service time and costs, and increasing the use of technology.
The document outlines the implementation of reform measures capable of yielding effective results at a reasonable cost, focusing on immediate improvements in service delivery for citizens. It is based on identifying and addressing service delivery problems promptly, with coordination among concerned agencies for further improvements if necessary.
The action plan aims to implement measurable and direct reforms within the next 30 days in various sectors such as District Administration Offices, Department of Transport Management, Department of Passport, Offices of the Examinations Controller, Revenue Offices, and sectors like telecommunications, drinking water, public transport, and market monitoring.
The plan also envisions gradual and sustained reforms through prompt measures and necessary structural interventions for long-term improvements in public service delivery. It prioritizes ‘quick fix’ solutions, requiring timely problem-solving rather than waiting for long-term legal and structural reforms.
The action plan is part of a reform cycle aimed at identifying service delivery problems, providing immediate solutions, and monitoring progress. Public offices related to daily services like the District Administration Office, Department of Transport Management, Department of Passport, National Exam Board, Nepal Telecom, and Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani will undergo reforms to enhance service delivery.
Digital grievance handling schemes, including the use of WhatsApp, SMS, and QR codes, along with the appointment of focal persons at each office and monitoring indicators for public service, are fundamental components of the action plan.