CM Chandrababu calls for overhaul of outdated administrative rules

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has emphasized the need for comprehensive administrative reforms, calling the current phase “crucial” for improving governance across the state.

During a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat with ministers, principal secretaries, and department heads on Wednesday, the CM highlighted that to deliver services to citizens efficiently and transparently, outdated business rules must be revised.

“Just as the Constitution has been amended numerous times over the years to serve the public interest, why shouldn’t government business rules evolve as well?” he asked. He stressed that government decisions, file processes, and inter-departmental coordination must be modernized to match the demands of the present era.

The CM pointed out that even minor decisions currently go through multiple unnecessary stages, causing delays in service delivery. He called for removing redundant procedures such as duplicate signatures, unnecessary approvals, and multi-department clearances. Chandrababu instructed officials to eliminate outdated rules and implement a comprehensive change management system to simplify administration.

Chandrababu warned that poor performance, file delays, and postponed decisions would no longer be tolerated. Every file must have a mandatory deadline, and the responsible officers must ensure decisions are taken within the set timeframe. Officials who neglect their duties risk strict action.

He also underscored the importance of using technology and data to enhance governance efficiency. Departments were asked to conduct internal audits to identify ineffective rules, procedural delays, and areas of low performance, and revise rules accordingly. He emphasized that the government has complete performance data for all departments, which should guide decision-making. Every officer must work responsibly and with a citizen-focused vision.

Chandrababu praised the Aware platform, which currently provides citizens access to information on 42 key services, improving transparency. He urged departments to leverage satellite data and technology to better understand and address citizen issues. The CM highlighted the role of WhatsApp governance in public service delivery, noting that over 800 services are already available, with an additional 383 to be added soon, bringing the total to 1,200 services accessible via WhatsApp.

He also instructed that the e-file system be accelerated and that technology use in the legal department be expanded to resolve pending cases more efficiently.

The CM set a target for all departments to complete online file disposal by January 15. Failure to meet this deadline will hold the respective ministers and officials accountable. He also advised departments to focus on enhancing employee skills to increase the speed of file resolution.