Gram panchayats to have video conferencing system

Work is underway to set up video conferencing systems in all panchayats of the state. The Centre has released money for setting up the system in around 700 gram panchayats in the first phase. The tender to invite bids for supplying the equipment and setting up the system has been floated by Himachal Pradesh State Electronics Development Corporation.

According to an official of the department of Panchayati Raj, the project will ensure effective communication and prompt dissemination of information to the panchayats and back to the department.

“Nearly 97-98 per cent of our panchayats have internet connectivity, but still we do not have an effective communication channel with the panchayats. Apart from providing prompt communication channel, the video conferencing system will help in conducting training and ensuring the participation of gram panchayats in webinars, etc,” the official said.

The official further said that Common Service Centres are also being opened up on the premises of the panchayats. Currently, around 600 Common Service Centres are functional and the work is underway to open another 1,000 at the earliest.

“With the common service centres functioning from the premises of the panchayat buildings, people do not face any inconvenience in getting any certificates or documents,” the official said.

These common service centres are run by the person of the local panchayats.