Tamil Nadu: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences; and MoS for PMO, Atomic Energy, and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the Southern Regional Conference of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) on June 30, 2025, at Pondicherry University. Themed “Empowering Citizens in Digital India: Administrative, Management and Organizational Reforms,” the conference brought together public administrators, researchers, and scholars to deliberate on next-gen governance reforms.
🏛️ Pondicherry University Launches Governance Cell
A key highlight of the event was the launch of a Governance Cell at Pondicherry University—a forward-looking initiative aimed at promoting youth engagement in public administration, ethical leadership, and governance innovation. Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed it as a “platform to inspire the next generation to take ownership of India’s transformation journey.”
🔄 From 2014 to Now: A Decade of Citizen-Centric Reforms
In his inaugural address, Dr. Singh recounted how the shift from “minimum government, maximum governance” has led to the development of a robust, digital-first, citizen-focused administrative framework. He cited key reforms such as:
- DigiLocker and UMANG for seamless access to services
- JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) enabling financial inclusion
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to curb leakages and ensure efficient delivery
- Self-attestation replacing notarised verifications
- Digital Life Certificates helping pensioners avoid physical presence
“These are not mere tech upgrades,” he stressed, “but tools for dignity, access, and socio-economic empowerment—especially for rural and vulnerable populations.”
👁️🗨️ Technology that Humanises Governance
The Minister emphasized that face recognition, biometrics, and AI-based systems are not just about modernizing processes but about making governance more humane. “It’s not the tech itself—but how it’s used to enhance dignity and ease of living—that defines Digital India,” he said.
Dr. Singh also spotlighted flagship schemes such as:
- Ayushman Bharat, offering healthcare even for pre-existing diseases
- PM Awas Yojana, improving housing accessibility
- One Nation, One Subscription, providing academic research access across India
📈 India’s Rise in Global Indices and Innovation
The Minister proudly noted India’s rising stature on global indicators:
- From 10th to 4th in global economic rankings
- Soaring positions on the Global Innovation Index
- Surge in patent filings and startup growth
He projected India’s economy to rank 3rd globally by 2027, underlining the link between governance reforms and broader national advancement.
🛰️ Unlocking New Frontiers: Oceans to Outer Space
Calling Digital India the “default operating system of governance”, Dr. Singh urged collaboration across sectors to unlock untapped domains—from deep ocean research to space exploration. He framed this mission as integral to “Viksit Bharat 2047,” India’s vision for becoming a fully developed nation.
📘 Book Launch and Felicitations
As part of the event, Dr. Singh released the book “Digital Governance in India – Transforming Public Service Delivery” authored by Dr. T. Gopinath, Assistant Professor & Dean (Student Welfare) at Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development, Chandigarh. He also felicitated retired IAS officer Vallavan for his outstanding contributions to public service.
👥 Broad Participation and Scholarly Engagement
The conference saw the presence of over 350 attendees, including senior IAS officers, university faculty, students, researchers, and public administration professionals. Delegations from IIPA’s Southern Regional Branches—Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry—took part. Over 80 academic papers were presented, reflecting high-level engagement with topics such as policy reforms, digital infrastructure, and ethical governance.
🎙️ Dignitaries Present
- Prof. P. Prakash Babu, Vice Chancellor, Pondicherry University
- Dr. Sharat Chauhan, Chief Secretary, Government of Puducherry
- Surendra Nath Tripathi, Director General, IIPA
- Amitabh Ranjan, Registrar, IIPA
- Dr. Ashok Das, Dean Academics, Pondicherry University
📝 Final Note
Dr. Jitendra Singh’s address captured the transformative energy behind India’s administrative reforms, driven by digital tools, ethical leadership, and inclusive development. His call to prepare for the future with collaboration, compassion, and courage set the tone for a new era in public service and governance.
For more details, check press release on PIB website.
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