🌐 Building a Digital Future: J&K Charts Bold Tech-Driven Governance Vision

JAMMU, April 21, 2026 : In a decisive push toward modern governance, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo outlined an ambitious roadmap for a digitally empowered Jammu and Kashmir at the ‘Tech Saksham’ workshop held in Jammu.

Organized jointly by National Informatics Centre (NIC) and National Informatics Centre Services Incorporated under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the event brought together top administrators, technologists, and policymakers.

💡 Digital Governance as the Backbone

Atal Dulloo emphasized that digital governance is no longer optional—it is now the core foundation of transparent, efficient, and citizen-centric administration.

He highlighted a shift toward a “Whole-of-Government” approach, aiming to:

• Break departmental silos
• Enable seamless data sharing
• Accelerate public service delivery

For a geographically diverse region like J&K, he noted, digital platforms act as a critical bridge, reducing delays, minimizing corruption, and strengthening public trust.

🤖 Focus on AI, Cybersecurity & Inclusion

The Chief Secretary stressed that:

• Artificial Intelligence will play a key role in governance through structured data
• Systems must include user-friendly interfaces and local language support
• Cybersecurity protocols and crisis management plans are essential and non-negotiable

He also called for continuous capacity building of government employees and stronger collaboration with academic institutions.

🚀 Major Announcements & Initiatives

Two major developments were highlighted:

• 🧠 AI Centre of Excellence
  • Approved by MeitY
  • To be hosted at Indian Institute of Technology Jammu
  • Focus on region-specific innovation and research
• 🏢 Proposed IT Parks in Jammu & Srinagar
  • Aimed at boosting the startup ecosystem
  • Expected to generate large-scale employment opportunities

🗳️ Broader Perspective on Technology

State Election Commissioner Shantmanu underlined the growing importance of IT across governance sectors.

He offered a nuanced view on AI:

• Embrace it as a powerful tool
• But study it carefully, like a potential adversary, to prevent misuse

He also pointed to how digital tools can enhance transparency in elections.

📚 Knowledge Sessions

The workshop featured expert-led sessions on emerging technologies:

• Cybersecurity by Amit Dubey
• Cloud computing by Rajendran Dandapani of Zoho Corporation
• Artificial Intelligence by Alok Tiwar