IAS Abhilash Baranwal’s Vision for Ri Bhoi: Governance That Reaches Every Doorstep (Meghalaya)

IAS Abhilash Baranwal is a 2018 Batch Officer of Assam-Meghalaya Cadre and is currently posted as Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya. His Vision for the district is to make governance accessible, accountable, and impactful - where development reaches every doorstep, and progress includes everyone.

“The core objective is very simple to make public service delivery as seamless, transparent, and accessible as possible” He quoted 

Under his leadership, the district has placed strong emphasis on enforcing the Right to Public Services and the Citizen’s Charter enabling people to know exactly which services are available, the timelines involved and whom to approach. This is aimed at reducing corruption, unnecessary hurdles and ensuring that government systems operate with accountability. Second key pillar of his vision is saturation of central and state government schemes. Whether it is PMAY for housing, MGNREGA for employment or various others, the strategy focuses on maximum and efficient utilization of existing government schemes so no eligible household is left out.

Last but not the least, his third priority is strengthening public institutions -schools, health centers and local governance bodies so that they are capable of delivering quality services consistently. 

As an Aspirational District, Ri Bhoi is also working toward measurable improvement in key indicators identified by NITI Aayog. Alongside this, livelihoods especially in rural communities are being supported through NRLM (National Rural Livelihoods Mission) to help households enhance income and resilience.

With this approach IAS Abhilash Baranwal is bridging the gap between government and the people.