New Delhi: The Delhi government has given its official approval for constructing a new mini secretariat in Dwarka's Sector 10. This significant project carries an estimated budget of Rs 212.91 crore. The move forms a crucial part of the administration's broader strategy to strengthen governance at the district level.
Focus on Citizen-Centric Services
The proposal received clearance from the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC). Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has issued clear directives. She wants similar mini secretariats established in all thirteen revenue districts of Delhi. The primary goal is to enhance public interface and make services more citizen-focused.
The Revenue Department now faces an important task. Officials must conduct a thorough assessment of land availability, financial requirements, and other implications. They are expected to submit a detailed proposal for completing all thirteen buildings within a strict two-year timeframe.
Decentralizing Administration
These new mini secretariats will bring most local government departments under one roof. This includes offices of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) zones. Chief Minister Gupta emphasized that this consolidation will end a major inconvenience for citizens. People currently have to visit multiple offices scattered across the city for different services.
The government expects several benefits from this initiative. Inter-department coordination should improve significantly. Monitoring and review processes by district officials will likely become more efficient and streamlined.
Project Details and Timeline
The Revenue Department has identified the creation of these mini secretariats as one of eleven critical action areas in its strategy map for 2025–26. An official explained the rationale behind the project. "The need for district mini secretariats has grown substantially," the official stated. "The role of district authorities has expanded far beyond traditional functions like land administration."
The proposal recently went before the EFC following a presentation by the Divisional Commissioner. The planned building in Dwarka will feature a total covered area of 35,535 square metres. This includes 21,737 square metres of actual building space and 13,798 square metres designated for basement parking.
Phased Completion and Strict Oversight
Officials plan to complete the project in phases over three financial years. The allocation stands at Rs 1 crore for 2025–26, Rs 110.74 crore for 2026–27, and Rs 101.91 crore for 2027–28. While an initial proposal suggested a 25-month completion timeline, authorities have issued a stricter directive. The executing agency must now finish the project within 18 months.
The EFC placed strong emphasis on adhering to schedules and avoiding cost overruns. It issued specific instructions for the tender process. Stringent penalty and performance clauses must be included in the tender documents. The committee also mandated robust quality control mechanisms, including third-party inspections.
A dedicated Project Monitoring Committee will be formed to track progress. This committee will submit periodic reports directly to the Administrative Secretary, ensuring continuous oversight.
Sustainable and Model Facility
Government officials revealed additional plans for the mini secretariats. They will be developed as zero-waste facilities. Each building will incorporate modern sustainable features. These include solar power systems, sewage treatment plants, and water or mist sprinklers.
The Dwarka mini secretariat is poised to become a benchmark for future projects. A government official expressed confidence about its impact. "Once completed, the Dwarka mini secretariat is expected to serve as the model for all others," the official said. This project represents a concrete step in Delhi's ongoing administrative reforms, aiming to bring government services closer to the people.
