K-Smart revolutionizes permit process in Kerala; Karnataka to follow suit

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: K-Smart, an initiative facilitating easy access to services such as building permits has commenced its operations eliminating the need for physical office visits. Prabhakaran, a landowner within Kozhikode Corporation swiftly obtained the permit through K-Smart. The historic first permit under K-Smart was personally handed over to Prabhakaran by Kozhikode Mayor Bina Philip. The system is set to be fully operational by the 15th of this month.

The local department's goal with K-Smart is to grant permits within a remarkable 30-second timeframe. Engineered by the Information Kerala Mission, this service is presently available in municipalities and corporations with plans to extend to panchayats by April 1.

For constructions deemed low risk covering up to 3000 square feet permits can be obtained based on a self-attested affidavit jointly signed by the building owner and designer. This hassle-free process occurs via the software bypassing the need for physical office visits. Previously, Suvega and IBPMS software were utilized in Kozhikode Corporation and other municipalities respectively. Additionally, procedures for vital events such as birth, death registration and marriage certificates can now be seamlessly completed through the software incorporating an online video KYC system for marriage certificates.

Karnataka, inspired by Kerala's successful implementation has expressed interest in studying K-Smart, leading to the signing of a memorandum of understanding. Furthermore, the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP), a Swiss non-profit foundation has shown interest in collaborating with K-Smart recognizing its innovative capabilities.

Remarkably, K-Smart was developed in a mere 120 days by a dedicated team of 100 members from the Information Kerala Mission marking a significant leap in digital governance.

The initiative's success has prompted the Karnataka government to contemplate adopting a similar model, while garnering global interest from organizations like the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) in Switzerland.