An interactive discussion on technology-driven public services and good governance took place at Tripura Santiniketan Medical College & Hospital on September 28. Participants discussed ways to make government services more accessible, efficient and people-centric.
Ekdunia.com and Positive Barta organised the programme. The organisers held the event as part of efforts to give greater meaning to Good Governance Day and the Tripura government’s Seva Sankalp Abhiyan.
The discussion examined how technology can simplify public services. Speakers also highlighted the importance of keeping empathy and human values at the centre of service delivery.
Technology can make public services more accessible
Participants discussed the growing role of digital technology in government services. They said digital systems can help people access essential services more quickly and conveniently.
Technology can reduce delays and simplify several administrative processes. It can also help government agencies reach people who may otherwise struggle to access services.
However, speakers stressed that technology should support people rather than create additional difficulties. They called for systems that remain easy to use and accessible to citizens from different backgrounds.
The discussion therefore focused on creating a balance between technological development and human-centred governance.
Malay Pit stresses people-centric service delivery
Malay Pit, founder of the Ekdunia Antyodaya Mission and president of Tripura Santiniketan Medical College & Hospital, stressed the need to keep people at the centre of public service delivery.
Pit said systems should ensure that no person feels helpless while seeking essential services. He also highlighted the potential of technology to bring services closer to people’s doorsteps.
His remarks focused on using technology as a tool to improve access. Instead of making citizens travel long distances or navigate complicated procedures, digital systems can help bring services closer to communities.
This approach can prove particularly useful for people who face difficulties accessing government offices or digital platforms.
Speakers highlight human values
The discussion also examined the limitations of technology-driven systems. Speakers agreed that digital platforms can improve speed and convenience. However, they stressed that technology cannot replace human sensitivity.
Empathy and compassion remain important when people seek assistance. This becomes especially relevant for citizens who may have limited digital knowledge or difficulty using online services.
Participants said public service should maintain dignity and respect while adopting new technologies. They called for a model where digital tools and personal assistance work together.
Seva Sankalp Abhiyan gets focus
The programme also connected technology-driven governance with the Tripura government’s Seva Sankalp Abhiyan.
The organisers said the initiative aims to encourage a more responsive approach to public service. They emphasised the need to make government services easier for citizens to access.
The discussion also underlined the idea that good governance should focus on the actual needs of people. Technology can help achieve that objective when authorities design systems around accessibility and convenience.
Tripura Santiniketan Medical College’s technology focus
The discussion also aligns with Tripura Santiniketan Medical College’s broader emphasis on technology and human-centred development. The college describes technology-driven education and healthcare as one of its core strategic values.
The institution has also outlined plans involving digital healthcare services, including telemedicine, tele-ICU, teleradiology and telepathology.
These initiatives reflect the wider role that digital technology can play in improving access to essential services, particularly in areas where people may face geographical or logistical challenges.
Focus on inclusive public services
Participants at the discussion called for an approach that combines innovation with inclusivity. They said technological progress should benefit citizens without leaving behind people who face difficulties using digital systems.
A people-centric approach can help ensure that digital transformation remains focused on its intended purpose: making services easier and more accessible.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of accountability and responsibility in public service. Technology can improve efficiency, but participants stressed that human commitment must guide its use.
Technology as an enabler of better governance
The programme concluded with a call for more responsive and inclusive public services. Participants emphasised that service should remain a responsibility, while good governance should protect the dignity and interests of citizens.
The discussion at Tripura Santiniketan Medical College highlighted a key aspect of modern governance. Digital technology can make public services faster and easier, but its success ultimately depends on how effectively it serves people.
By combining technological innovation with empathy and accessibility, public institutions can work towards a more citizen-focused model of service delivery.