Gandhinagar: On Wednesday, the Gujarat Administrative Reforms Commission (GARC) presented its fifth recommendation report, containing 12 key recommendations, to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

The report builds on the idea of leveraging digital technology to ensure citizen-centric services that are simple, accessible, and inclusive. It proposes adopting the vision of “One State – One Portal”, aimed at providing all government services to every citizen through a single digital interface, thereby realizing the goal of “Government at the doorstep of citizens.”

GARC’s fifth report suggests introducing a Single Sign-On (SSO) system, allowing citizens to access all services through a single user ID. It also proposes linking pre-filled data with Aadhaar and DigiLocker for automatic use across departments — helping achieve the concept of “Give information once, get benefits multiple times.”

A major highlight of the report is the development of a Digital Gujarat 2.0 Portal, which would enable end-to-end digital workflows for key citizen services, ensure real-time tracking of applications and approvals, and enhance transparency, speed, and accountability. The initiative aims to promote a ‘Less Paper – More Facilities’ approach by introducing standardized forms and minimizing redundant documentation.

GARC has also recommended modernizing all Jan Seva Kendras (JSKs) to reduce waiting times, establish help desks, and create a citizen-friendly environment in line with the Citizen First approach. In rural areas, the role of Village Computer Entrepreneurs (VCEs) will be strengthened, while in urban areas, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) are proposed to ensure faster, more efficient service delivery.

The report also calls for regular audits and updates of Citizen Charters under the Right to Citizen Public Service Act, along with additional staffing at service centers, employee training programs, and clear guidelines on service hours to enhance Ease of Governance.

GARC Chairman Dr. Hasmukh Adhia described the report as more than just a technological reform, calling it “a new culture of good governance where citizens remain at the center, in line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Citizen Devo Bhava.’” He added that under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s leadership, Gujarat is poised to take a quantum leap toward a new era of digital governance, driven by the principle “The government will reach the citizen — not the other way around.” DeshGujarat