IAS Shashank Shubhankar to launch local-language app for government services and grievance redressal in Gaya, Bihar

In Gaya, where more than 60 lakh people depend on government services, finding information about available schemes, application procedures and the status of submitted applications can be difficult for many residents. To address this, Gaya Collector Shashank Shubhankar,IAS (2014 Batch) is taking up an initiative called Gaya Sahayak, a mobile app being developed in the local Magahi language.

"In Bihar, many people do not even know which services are available to them or how they can get help. Even after submitting an application, they are unable to track what has happened to it or at which level it is pending. There is still a big digital divide."he explained

To address this gap, Gaya Sahayak app brings information about all government services onto a single platform. Through the app, people will be able to find out which services are available, how to apply for them and how to get help with the process. Additionally the app also includes WhatsApp chatbot, allowing people to ask questions about government schemes and services in their local language.

Another key feature will be complaint registration and application tracking. People will be able to check the progress of their applications and know at which level they are being processed, instead of having to visit different offices just to get an update. 

A separate control room is also being set up to handle complaints and ensure their redressal. The administration will also work towards informing people about the action taken on their complaints in Magahi (local language).

Reducing the language barrier and making governance more inclusive, the app is being developed in Magahi, the local language of the region so that people can understand the information more easily. This is especially important for residents who are not comfortable using digital platforms in other languages. “The idea is to make an app in the local Magahi language so that people can easily understand the information and access the services available to them” 

Recognised under a Government of India programme, the initiative has received financial support from the Centre. Gaya Sahayak aims to bridge the gap between government services and the people they are meant to reach.