we have substantially reduced footfalls in government offices

What, according to you, are the emerging aspirations of the people of Delhi-across social strata, gender, and age groups?

The people of Delhi aspire to have a better work culture, efficient governance, and better service delivery system; apart from reliable basic amenities.

Delhi is often labeled as the ‘crime capital' of India. Do you think it is possible to drastically reduce crime? How are you planning to go about it?

It is not correct to state here.

You have been an active proponent of people's participation in governance. But on the ground, it is still very insignificant. What are your plans to enhance it?

My government started Bhagidari initiative in 1999 with just 4-5 citizen groups. The Bhagidari has come a long way. It has significantly improved the amenities in the colonies and been recognized at international level. The Bhagidari initiative has been replicated by various state governments and implemented in government schools, hospitals, trade organisation, etc. It is a shining example of peoples' participation in governance.

Like other states, the lack of co-ordination between various govt departments and agencies seems to be plaguing Delhi too? What is your plan to tighten that front?

The capital city has never felt the lack of coordination between its various departments and agencies.

Despite Delhi being the capital of India, the divide between the ‘haves and have nots' is also huge. As the leader of the State, how are you planning to improve quality of life of millions of people who are down below and struggle for survival?

The highest per capita income in the country is in Delhi. It reflects the better standards of living in the capital city. The government has been striving hard to improve the conditions of the poor and other vulnerable sections of the society. It has established a free residential school for SC/OBC/minorities and orphans. The government has also decided to provide free flats to the SCs under Rajiv Ratan Awas Yojana.

Often the ‘fear of losing control over information' or the ‘fear of transparency' amongst govt officials comes in the way of e-Governance deployment. How did you manage to convince your team and take everybody along in Delhi's e-Governance journey so far? And do you believe computer and communication technologies can change the fate of Delhi and its people?

Delhi has brought 116 government services of 24 different departments under time bound delivery of services mechanism. There has been substantial decrease in footfalls in Government offices. The city government has been introducing e-Governance through computerization, e-stamping, e-sub registrar offices, and e-Courts. It has enhanced transparency, openness, and efficiency.

Your getting shortlisted for the World Mayor Award a few years back means you are a statesperson who cares for the people. In a few words, what is your vision of a ‘modern, secure, inclusive Delhi'?

Right from the first day when I took over as the Chief Minister of Delhi, I have been stating that my government would turn Delhi into the best world class city. I have concentrated on enhancing green cover and overcoming pollution in the city.