Bengaluru: The govt launched Seva One, a single window platform that is expected to offer 2,300 of the 2,456 govt services under one roof, with artificial intelligence (AI) encoded to assist citizens. A mobile app is planned for launch next month.However, the govt may have to rethink the name after officials found that a private online portal already operates as SevaOne and offers multiple govt services to people. Officials say the govt is examining the issue to avoid confusion and prevent users from being diverted to the private platform. Namma Seve is among the alternatives being considered, though no decision has been taken.The Seva One platform will be operated by the newly constituted department and will use basic AI to help users identify relevant services and documents to be submitted for approvals based on requirements. Harsh Gupta, principal secretary, Prajaseva, said people may get confused on the exact requirements or choose a wrong category for services which will then be corrected or assisted for correction by the AI feature. “AI will ensure AI applications go to the correct department,” he said.He added: “For instance, if a person is seeking approvals to build a house, then the AI assistant on the portal will guide the person on details of documents and approvals required for the purpose. The person can immediately apply from the portal to all these departments for approvals.”He also said discussions will be held with departments to bring the remaining 156 services online. The govt plans to eventually integrate the platform with DigiLocker, allowing users to access documents without repeatedly uploading them.“At present, ‘Seva One’ is a single login portal, but people will have to submit documents every time a department requires them,” Gupta said. “Integrating it with Digilocker will save time.”The department is also expected to seek central govt approval to bring certain central services, including motor vehicle related services, onto the platform.The department is also working to release a ‘Seva One’ mobile application early next month, with Oct 2, Gandhi Jayanti, pencilled in for the launch.“The app will have a wider impact and reach to popularise the service,” said Harsh Gupta, principal secretary, Prajaseva. The govt also plans to allow franchises to operate kiosks in rural and urban areas for people needing assistance with digital services.“Franchises can seek a nominal charge to help citizens open an account, apply for services and secure them,” Gupta said. Officials said the charge could be Rs 10 or Rs 15 per application, with additional charges possible for stationery.
