Chandigarh, October 8, 2025:Reaffirming his commitment to citizen-centric governance, Punjab Governor and Administrator UT Chandigarh Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, today inaugurated five new Sampark Centres at Sectors 30, 44, 52, 55, and Kajheri, marking another milestone in Chandigarh’s journey towards accessible, transparent, and efficient public service delivery.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, Sh. Hari Kallikkat, Secretary Information Technology, and other senior officers of the Chandigarh Administration.

Speaking on the occasion, the Administrator said that the Sampark initiative represents a bridge between the government and the people. He remarked that Sampark is not just about technology—it is about trust. It is about ensuring that every citizen, whether young, elderly, or differently-abled, can access government services with dignity, ease, and transparency.

Sh.Kataria emphasized that the Administration is committed to taking governance to the doorsteps of the people, ensuring that no one is left behind. The Governor appreciated the efforts of the Information Technology Department for expanding the Sampark network and directed officials to continue adopting innovative digital tools to make Chandigarh a model of efficient and citizen-friendly administration. He said that with every new Sampark Centre, the Administration reaffirms its resolve to serve citizens better and make technology a true enabler of good governance.

The Sampark Project, launched in 2004 with the opening of the first centre at Sector 43, stands as one of the flagship initiatives of the Chandigarh Administration. Under the guidance and vision of the Governor, the network has grown steadily from 1 to 50 centres, covering both urban and rural areas of Chandigarh. These centres now offer 122 government-to-citizen services, including Aadhaar enrolment, e-stamping, electricity and water bill payments, and various services of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office and other departments—all under one roof.

On the occasion, Chief Secretary Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, said that Chandigarh has always been a model for citizen-oriented governance and the expansion of the Sampark network is another step in the Administration’s journey to make public services more efficient, transparent, and inclusive. He said that the Administration remains committed to strengthening this model further through innovation and by listening to the real needs of its citizens.

Secretary Information Technology, Sh. Hari Kallikkat, IAS, said that the success of Sampark lies in its ability to provide multiple government services through a single platform with easy access for all. He added that these new centres will not only enhance service delivery but will also create employment opportunities for local youth.

Highlighting the inclusivity of the initiative, the Governor also mentioned the launch of Door-to-Door Sampark Services, specially designed for super senior citizens and individuals with mobility or health issues, ensuring that essential government services reach every section of society. He further noted that the Sampark project has contributed significantly to employment generation, with more than 200 people currently employed, including 14 newly appointed Customer Care Executives for the newly inaugurated centres.

The Governor concluded by saying that initiatives like Sampark embody the spirit of “citizen-first governance” and reaffirm the Administration’s dedication to ensuring transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity in service delivery. The expansion of the Sampark network, he said, is a testament to the Administration’s commitment to making governance more accessible and people-oriented.