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Tuesday, December 2, 2025 2:31 PM

Governance Community

NDAP: Revolutionizing Data Access as NITI Aayog Marks a Decade of Progress

As NITI Aayog celebrates a decade of spearheading India’s development agenda, its National Data and Analytics Platform (NDAP) shines as a cornerstone of innovation in governance and policymaking. Designed to democratize data access and enhance decision-making, NDAP exemplifies NITI Aayog’s commitment to fostering transparency and evidence-based policymaking. Launched as a pioneering web-based platform, NDAP aggregates datasets from across India’s statistical ecosystem. The platform simplifies data discovery and analysis, offering a user-friendly interface for searching, merging, visualizing, and downloading datasets. As of January 2025, NDAP hosts 5,148 datasets spanning 31 sectors and 53 ministries, setting new benchmarks for accessibility and usability in public data. Key Features of NDAP Accessibility and Interoperability: NDAP standardizes datasets into machine-readable formats, promoting seamless cross-sectoral analysis. Its unified framework, based on the Ministry of Panchayati Raj Local Government Directory Code, enables users to integrate datasets from diverse sources effortlessly. High-Quality Datasets: Each dataset undergoes stringent quality checks through an in-house 5-star rating framework, ensuring reliability and usability for researchers, policymakers, and analysts. Interactive Tools: From bar charts to heat maps, NDAP provides customizable visualization tools, empowering users to derive meaningful insights tailored to their needs. Advanced Analysis: The Merge Tool allows users to combine up to three datasets, facilitating complex, multi-dimensional policy analysis. NDAP’s transformative impact bridges the gap between data availability and actionable insights, empowering stakeholders across sectors to address real-world challenges with data-backed decisions. As NITI Aayog marks 10 years of excellence, NDAP stands as a testament to its vision of leveraging data for transparent, inclusive governance. Explore the NDAP portal to witness its role in shaping India’s data-driven future. Source: egov.eletsonline.com Photo Credit: egov.eletsonline.com

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Blinken Calls for Gaza Post-War Reconstruction and Interim Governance

As the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas draws closer, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized the importance of a comprehensive plan for Gaza’s post-war reconstruction and governance. Speaking at the Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C., Blinken outlined a strategy that includes the establishment of an interim governing authority in Gaza, facilitated by the Palestinian Authority and supported by international partners. “We have a responsibility to ensure that the strategic gains of the last 15 months endure and lay the foundation for a better future,” Blinken stated. The proposed plan involves Arab states and other international partners contributing to an interim security mission in Gaza while prioritizing essential services and rebuilding the war-torn region. Blinken highlighted the need to replace conflict and instability with governance that ensures security and development, steering Gaza toward long-term peace and progress. In addition to Gaza, Blinken addressed broader Middle East strategies, including countering Iran’s influence and pursuing the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. The Gaza reconstruction plan, however, remains a central focus of U.S. diplomacy, with efforts underway to garner support from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Gulf Arab nations. The plan envisions a Gaza governed without Hamas, ensuring stability and prioritizing reconstruction following the devastating war that erupted in October 2023. According to Blinken, this approach aims to break the cycle of conflict in the region while creating opportunities for sustainable governance and economic development. The proposal underscores a collaborative international effort to address the immediate needs of Gaza’s population while laying a foundation for long-term stability in the Middle East. Source: Hindustan Times Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

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Andhra Pradesh to Launch WhatsApp Governance for Accessible Public Services

Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand announced the upcoming launch of WhatsApp Governance, a platform aimed at making government services more accessible to the public. The initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, seeks to bridge the gap between the administration and citizens by leveraging digital technology. “WhatsApp Governance will be available in both English and Telugu to ensure inclusivity and ease of use for all citizens,” Vijayanand said on January 10, 2025 (Friday). During his visit to the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) centre at the Secretariat, the Chief Secretary reviewed the platform’s progress. RTGS CEO Dinesh Kumar provided a demonstration of the platform, confirming that development work has been completed. The RTGS plans to offer 150 types of public services through WhatsApp Governance. These services will include a feature for filing complaints directly via WhatsApp, ensuring swift grievance redressal. Highlighting the importance of technology in improving administrative efficiency, Vijayanand emphasized the need for collaboration between RTGS and various government departments. He urged the RTGS to provide technical support and share innovative technologies with departments to meet their specific needs effectively. The WhatsApp Governance initiative underscores the government’s commitment to making administration more transparent, citizen-friendly, and efficient, marking a significant step toward digital governance in Andhra Pradesh. Source: The Hindu Photo Credit: The Hindu

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Om Birla Encourages Women PRI Leaders to Harness AI and Innovation for Inclusive Governance

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has called on women leaders from Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation to make governance more inclusive and people-oriented. Speaking at the ‘Panchayat se Parliament 2.0’ programme on Monday, Birla emphasized the critical role of technology in driving sustainable development and empowering grassroots governance. The event, organized at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) in collaboration with the National Commission for Women and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, witnessed the participation of over 500 women PRI representatives from 22 states and Union territories. Birla highlighted the transformative power of women’s leadership in strengthening democracy, noting that their inclusion, particularly from rural and tribal communities, is key to achieving socio-economic change. He lauded the Nari Shakti Vandan Act as a testament to India’s progressive vision for gender equality and women’s empowerment. During the event, Birla demonstrated Sansad Bhashini, an AI tool designed to translate speeches into six Indian languages—Gujarati, Marathi, Odia, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam. The tool aims to bridge language barriers, fostering inclusive communication and governance. Reflecting on India’s journey since independence, Birla invoked the legacies of figures like Rani Laxmi Bai and tribal leader Bhagwan Birsa Munda, urging PRI representatives to draw inspiration from their contributions. He underscored the need for women-led development in addressing rural challenges such as clean drinking water, sanitation, and education while promoting self-reliant villages through entrepreneurship. The programme also featured interactive workshops on constitutional provisions, including the 73rd Amendment and the PESA Act, alongside discussions on government schemes targeting tribal welfare. The event reaffirmed India’s commitment to empowering women at all levels of governance, from panchayats to Parliament. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard

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UAE, US Explore Gaza Governance Post-Israel Withdrawal

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has initiated confidential discussions with Israel and the United States on forming a provisional administration to oversee Gaza’s governance after the anticipated withdrawal of Israeli forces, according to sources familiar with the matter. The proposed plan involves the UAE, the US, and potentially other nations managing security, reconstruction, and governance in Gaza until a restructured Palestinian Authority (PA) is prepared to assume control. Reuters reported that these deliberations are part of behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts involving Western officials and diplomats. The discussions focus on stabilizing Gaza while transitioning governance to a reformed PA capable of administering Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem under a roadmap toward a unified and independent Palestinian state. A UAE official emphasized that the country’s participation hinges on significant reforms within the PA. “The UAE will not participate in any plan that fails to include significant reform of the Palestinian Authority, its empowerment, and the establishment of a credible roadmap toward a Palestinian state,” the official told Reuters. The PA, originally established under the Oslo Accords in the 1990s, was granted limited authority over Palestinian territories. However, the UAE’s position highlights the urgency of structural reforms to strengthen the PA’s governance capacity. Emirati officials also suggested the potential use of private military contractors as part of a peacekeeping force during the transitional period. While this aims to stabilize Gaza, it has drawn concerns from Western nations due to controversies surrounding private contractors in other global conflicts. The UAE’s unique role as a security partner of the US and one of the few Arab nations with diplomatic ties to Israel positions it as a key mediator in the region. However, the lack of concrete plans, coupled with Israel’s opposition to elements of the UAE’s proposal—such as a unified Palestinian state encompassing Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem—underscores the complexities of achieving a lasting solution. The situation remains fluid, with no formal agreements reached. The ongoing deliberations reflect the challenging dynamics of ensuring regional stability and progress toward Palestinian self-determination. Source: swarajyamag Photo Credit: swarajyamag

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Consumer Rights and Accountability Highlighted at Tamil Nadu Consumer Protection Council’s Golden Jubilee

The golden jubilee celebration of the Consumer Protection Council, Tamil Nadu, held in Tiruchi on Saturday, emphasized the importance of consumer rights and accountability across various sectors. The event featured talks by prominent personalities, shedding light on the significance of probity in governance and the judiciary. The programme was inaugurated by Minister for Municipal Administration K.N. Nehru, with Tiruchi District Collector M. Pradeep Kumar, Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madras High Court (Madurai Bench), and retired civil servant Swaran Singh in attendance. Pushpavanam, Secretary of the Consumer Protection Council, reflected on the organization’s 50-year journey, highlighting its achievements in promoting standardization and consumer welfare. The event featured discussions on themes such as accountability in the judiciary, executive, public sector, and legislature. S. Muralidhar, retired Chief Justice of Odisha High Court, opened the session on judicial accountability, praising the role of consumer councils in enhancing democratic governance. He noted that such bodies have significantly contributed to the effective implementation of the Right to Information Act. Justice Swaminathan underlined the need for accountability within the judiciary, emphasizing punctuality and dedication in courtrooms. He remarked that judges must recognize litigants as consumers of justice and encouraged consumer organizations to critically evaluate judgments and judicial conduct. Retired civil servants Swaran Singh and Vivek Harinarain, along with Rajya Sabha member Tiruchi N. Siva, former State Assembly Secretary M. Selvaraj, and BJP Tamil Nadu vice-president Narayanan Thirupathi, also spoke on the evolving challenges in consumer protection. The event underscored the pivotal role of consumer organizations in advocating for transparency and fairness in public services, marking a significant milestone in the council’s legacy. Source: The Hindu Photo Credit: The Hindu

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CM Revanth Reddy Advocates for Change, Accountability, and Progress in Telangana

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has called for transformative changes in the state’s governance, urging party representatives to adapt to the evolving political dynamics. Addressing MLAs and MLCs in a pivotal meeting, CM Reddy emphasized the importance of aligning leadership practices with the aspirations of the people. “I have changed, and it is now time for everyone to change as well,” he declared, signaling a call for introspection and renewed commitment among elected officials. He stressed the necessity for representatives to stay connected with their constituencies and actively involve citizens in the governance process. To ensure accountability, CM Reddy announced the introduction of progress reports for MLAs, reinforcing transparency as a cornerstone of his administration. Highlighting the accomplishments of his governance, the Chief Minister noted, “No wrong has been done in the past year.” This assertion underscored his administration’s dedication to integrity and efficiency while pledging continued efforts to foster positive change. Further, CM Reddy urged his ministerial team to enable party leaders to nominate individuals for key positions, particularly in the Anganwadi sector. This move aims to strengthen grassroots leadership and improve community welfare by involving local stakeholders in decision-making processes. The Chief Minister’s address reflects his vision of an inclusive and transparent administration, with a strong focus on accountability and progress. His leadership is poised to shape a future for Telangana that prioritizes citizen engagement and responsive governance, ensuring sustained development and trust in leadership. With these initiatives, CM Revanth Reddy reaffirms his commitment to building a governance model that embodies integrity, inclusivity, and progress. Source: thehansindia Photo Credit: thehansindia

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Centre Postpones Good Governance Index 2023, Next Release Scheduled for 2025

The release of the Good Governance Index (GGI) 2023, originally planned during Good Governance Week from December 19 to 25, has been deferred to 2025. The decision, as confirmed by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), reflects the need for updated data to ensure accurate and relevant governance assessments. The GGI, launched in December 2019 on the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, evaluates states and Union Territories (UTs) across over 50 indicators in sectors such as agriculture, economic governance, public health, and citizen-centric governance. In the 2019 and 2021 editions, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat emerged as top-performing states, respectively. The last index, unveiled on December 25, 2021, by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, assessed states on 58 indicators spanning 10 sectors. Gujarat secured the highest ranking, with 20 states showing improved composite scores compared to the inaugural 2019 index. DARPG Secretary V. Srinivas clarified the rationale behind the deferment: “Using data collected earlier in 2023 for a release at the end of 2024 would render the findings outdated. The GGI is a biennial publication, and the next edition will be published in December 2025.” In the interim, the DARPG has released District Good Governance Indices for states like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Arunachal Pradesh, showcasing its ongoing commitment to governance reforms. The Centre’s decision underscores the importance of aligning governance indices with current data to enhance their utility in shaping effective policy decisions. Source: Financial Express Photo Credit: Financial Express

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Former PM Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92: A Legacy of Economic Reforms and Political Resilience

Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s 13th Prime Minister and a globally renowned economist, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. Known as the architect of India’s liberalisation in the 1990s and for his calm leadership during crises, Singh leaves behind a legacy etched deeply in the nation’s political and economic history. A figure of quiet confidence and humility, Dr. Singh famously remarked, “History will be kinder to me than the media,” during an interaction with Hindustan Times as he prepared to step down after the 2014 General Elections. Acknowledging the criticism of his administration, Singh expressed faith that his tenure would be judged more favourably by future generations, considering the formidable challenges he navigated during his decade in office. Manmohan Singh’s political career began in 1991 when he was appointed Finance Minister in P.V. Narasimha Rao’s cabinet. His groundbreaking reforms are credited with steering India out of an economic crisis, ushering in an era of liberalisation and globalisation. Later, as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, Singh led India to achieve an average GDP growth rate of 7.6%, while fostering closer ties with Western nations. However, Singh’s tenure was not without controversy. His second term was overshadowed by scandals, including the Coal Allocation and 2G spectrum scams, which tarnished his administration’s image. Despite this, Singh remained steadfast in acknowledging areas of improvement, notably in employment generation, inflation control, and corruption combat. Remembered for his soft-spoken yet resolute demeanor, Singh’s leadership during the 2008 global financial crisis and his stewardship of a challenging coalition government will be seen as defining chapters in his legacy. As India mourns his passing, the nation reflects on a leader whose vision and integrity profoundly shaped its modern trajectory. Source: Hindustan Times Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

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Tripura CM Manik Saha Highlights Achievements in Good Governance on Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Birth Anniversary

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha marked Good Governance Day on Wednesday by commemorating the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and showcasing his government’s accomplishments in transparency, public welfare, and state development. Speaking at the event, Saha reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing effective governance for all societal segments. He attributed much of the progress in Tripura to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on the holistic development of the northeastern region, long regarded for its abundant resources. Highlighting the establishment of a dedicated Good Governance Department, Saha noted its role in fostering innovative projects aimed at the state’s welfare. Saha acknowledged the transformative impact of Modi’s leadership through initiatives such as the Act East Policy and the HIRA model (Highway, Internet, Railway, and Airways). He explained, “The development of the northeast is crucial for India’s overall progress. Vajpayeeji had laid the foundation for prioritizing this region, and Modiji has carried this vision forward with significant advancements.” Under the current government, Tripura has seen the creation of six national highways, enhanced internet connectivity, and improved rail services. The central government has also resolved several long-standing security challenges in the northeast, making it a region free of insurgency and conducive to economic growth. However, Saha pointed out operational delays in the Maitri Setu bridge over the River Feni, linking South Tripura to Chittagong seaport, citing the ongoing situation in Bangladesh. Despite this, he praised the central government’s continued efforts to enhance connectivity and development in the region. The celebrations underscored the state’s strides toward good governance, reflecting Vajpayee’s vision and Modi’s progressive leadership for a prosperous northeast India. Source: Times of India Photo Credit: Times of India

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