Babu pushes performance-driven governance

metro india news  I AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday directed officials to prioritise efficient public service delivery and adopt performance-driven governance, announcing a series of administrative reforms during a high-level review of departmental functioning held at the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS).

Emphasising accountability and motivation within the government machinery, the Chief Minister said employees would henceforth receive weightage based on performance, with outstanding performers being formally recognised through monthly appreciation letters from the government. He instructed senior officials to identify field-level staff who have earned public appreciation and ensure their contributions are acknowledged and recorded in personal service records. The initiative, officials noted, is expected to encourage healthy competition while motivating underperforming employees to improve.

Reviewing service delivery across departments, Naidu stressed the need to maintain high standards in public institutions, particularly healthcare facilities. He directed authorities to ensure strict sanitation in hospitals from Primary Health Centres to tertiary institutions, warning that outsourcing agencies would be held accountable for lapses. Administrative officers were asked to monitor availability of medical equipment and ensure that no hospital faces a shortage of doctors, with district collectors instructed to coordinate recruitment wherever vacancies exist.

The Chief Minister also called for improved management of temples, urging officials to enhance facilities for devotees while preserving a spiritual atmosphere. Turning to governance reforms, Naidu said the Revenue Department requires a fresh look to rebuild public trust and eliminate corruption. He emphasised automation of land-related services, completion of re-surveys to resolve disputes permanently, and strict action against erring survey staff.

Highlighting public health concerns, the Chief Minister ordered regular testing of drinking water samples and proposed deployment of mobile laboratories wherever testing facilities are unavailable. He also directed departments to conduct road accident audits and implement preventive measures based on findings.

Naidu underscored the importance of technology-driven governance and called for a statewide awareness campaign on digital public services through Mee Seva centres, self-help groups, and planning departments. Referring to emerging technologies showcased at a recent AI summit in New Delhi, he asked departments to study innovations and expedite implementation of memorandums of understanding signed by the State.