Navi Mumbai: In a move to revolutionize civic services, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is set to implement advanced digital systems that will allow citizens to register births, deaths, and marriages from the comfort of their homes.
This initiative, spearheaded by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde, aims to ensure that vital certificates can be obtained without visiting municipal offices, bringing ease and efficiency to residents.
The digital upgrade is part of the 100-day, seven-point action plan envisioned by the Chief Minister, with a strong focus on citizen-centric service delivery. Dr. Shinde has been personally visiting various departments to assess ongoing processes and direct improvements. During a recent inspection at the Koparkhairane Divisional Office, he emphasized the need for system modernization and user-friendliness in all citizen services.
"The goal is to make key services completely digital so that people can carry out essential tasks like registering a birth or applying for a marriage certificate without stepping out of their homes," said Dr. Shinde.
As part of the proposed enhancements, the Commissioner instructed officials to replicate the passport application model for marriage registrations. This would involve applicants uploading required documents online and receiving appointment details via SMS. Applications could be made either by individuals or with the help of Setu service centers.
Dr. Shinde also directed improvements in the current seating arrangements outside Citizen Facilitation Centers to accommodate more people and provide better comfort. In terms of infrastructure, he reviewed the cleanliness, record organization, and seating at the Koparkhairane office and made specific suggestions for improvement.
Additionally, he called for complete digitization of permissions related to debris disposal and ground usage. He suggested that lists of required documents be displayed prominently on both ground and first floors of all relevant offices. All certificate-related activities must be properly recorded and monitored through official registers, he added, assigning the responsibility to Assistant Commissioner Vasant Mundaware.
Further, the Commissioner proposed digital reforms in the property tax transfer and property valuation systems to simplify these processes for the public. He also advised that the municipal corporation maintain records of all private institutions, including schools, hospitals, and NGOs operating in the jurisdiction.
Dr. Shinde concluded his visit with an inspection of the Koparkhairane Maternity and Child Hospital, where he recommended widening both entrance gates and removing any structural obstructions to ensure smoother access. He directed Medical Officer Dr. Prashant Jawade, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Ajay Gadade, and Executive Engineer Ajay Sankhye to expedite the work.