Khotang administration introduces remote services to reduce office visits

Khotang, October 14, 2026 — The District Administration Office in Khotang has introduced a system allowing residents to access four types of administrative services without visiting the office in person.

Chief District Officer Mahesh Kumar Gurung said applicants can submit the required documents through the office’s email or WhatsApp, either directly or with assistance from their nearest ward office.

“Requiring people to visit the administration costs them both time and money. We plan to simplify cumbersome procedures and make services faster and more accessible through technology,” Gurung said. “In the first phase, we have started providing four types of services without requiring physical attendance. We plan to expand these services soon.”

People seeking recommendations to certify their Dalit, Janajati or Khas Arya identity, or to verify their surname, must submit a recommendation from their ward office along with a photocopy of their birth registration certificate or citizenship certificate.

According to a notice issued by the administration, applicants seeking permission to organize traditional religious and cultural festivals, processions, celebrations or fairs must submit an application or letter accompanied by a recommendation from the relevant ward or local government.

Service users said the office’s service delivery had improved considerably since Gurung took charge.

Gurung arrived in Khotang following his transfer on September 10 (Bhadau 25). Since then, he has launched a districtwide initiative called “Chief District Officer for Citizen Dialogue,” aimed at addressing residents’ concerns and needs and making administrative bodies more responsible and accountable.

He said the campaign would bring citizens’ problems, complaints and suggestions to the relevant agencies and create opportunities for direct dialogue between residents and the administration.

“Citizen dialogue helps ensure transparency in public service delivery. We discuss the problems people face, difficulties in obtaining services and issues that need to be resolved locally,” Gurung said. “We expect the campaign to help build public trust in the administration.”