KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that eliminating corruption is more important than just reducing it. He said that officials should not think that they can gain anything while serving the people. He was inaugurating the Local Self-Government Department's K-SMART software application.

"Some have adopted corruption as an art, while some believe that it is their right. The right is to get paid for the work done. The duty of officers is to serve the people. They should not harass the applicants unnecessarily. People here know the places where corruption is more prevalent. Some habits should be given up. Many people tend to continue their old habits believing that they will not face severe action. We have examples of this. Some are masters at making things difficult for the people. Officials should be able to state the matters to be resolved as part of the application at once. Permission can be given if the applicant is ready to resolve these matters. Delays should be avoided. The applicant's construction activities and related permits may be in order. However, permission is required. Many people are being tortured in these cases. Many people start businesses by taking loans. They will have to pay huge amounts as interest," the CM said.

"This is the first time in the country that a system has been developed to provide services in local bodies in just one click. All the services that were available through various portals and apps are being shifted to a single platform. Expatriates will no longer have to come home for services. All people will be able to use applications, including K-SMART, through the complete digital literacy program conducted by the local bodies," the CM added.

K-SMART mobile app launched
K-SMART mobile app was launched by Minister P Rajeev. Local Self-Government Department Principal Secretary Dr. Sharmmila Mary Joseph released the logo of K-SMART. Ernakulam district panchayat president Ullas Thomas inaugurated the Ernakulam District Product Innovation Center. State Planning Board Member Prof Jiju PP Alex launched the updated websites of 109 local body institutions.

Minister MB Rajesh presided over the ceremony. Mayor M Anil Kumar, Hibi Eden MP, MLAs TJ Vinod, KJ Maxi, District Collector NSK Umesh, CSML CEO Shaji V. Nair and GCDA Chairman K Chandran Pillai spoke at the function.