In a landmark moment for citizen-centric governance, Dr. Nitish Gupta (IDES 2021 batch), CEO of Nasirabad Cantonment, has been conferred the Southern Command Commendation Card — one of the highest recognitions awarded by the Indian Army to civilians. The award acknowledges Dr. Gupta’s innovative initiatives, hands-on leadership, and transformative improvements in urban services across Nasirabad and Ajmer Cantonments.
A New Model of Governance – Jan Samvad
Among Dr. Gupta’s most celebrated initiatives is “Jan Samvad – Chhawani Prashasan Aapke Dwar”, launched in September 2024. Over 15 days, the programme conducted seven sessions across eight wards, giving thousands of residents a direct platform to voice concerns, suggest solutions, and participate in ward-level planning.
The initiative introduced “Paidal Yatras”—foot marches led personally by Dr. Gupta and his team—bringing governance literally to residents’ doorsteps and resolving issues on the spot. Longer-term concerns were compiled into ward-wise development plans to ensure sustained action.
Visible Civic Transformation
Under Dr. Gupta’s leadership, Nasirabad Cantonment witnessed sweeping changes:
●Clean drinking water in every household via new pipelines.
●Upgraded public toilets with waterproofing, drainage, and theft-proof systems.
●Revival of public parks, including an eight-acre Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Garden.
●Door-to-door waste collection supported by a GPS-based attendance system for sanitation staff.
●Encroachment clearance on 5.5 acres of defence land, freeing space for community use.
These measures not only improved the quality of life for 70,000 residents but also created a replicable model of sustainable and inclusive civic governance.
Recognition and Future Plans
The initiative has drawn praise from across India, including Union Minister of State Bhagirath Chaudhary, and extensive national media coverage. Speaking on the award, Dr. Gupta said:
“This recognition is not just for me but for the team and the citizens who actively shaped their Cantonment. It proves what structured, participatory governance can achieve.”
Building on the success of Jan Samvad 1.0, Dr. Gupta plans to launch Jan Samvad 2.0, focusing on citizen feedback for completed works and ensuring continued accountability.
A Benchmark for Urban Local Bodies
Dr. Gupta’s citizen-first approach, efficient execution, and sustainable planning have turned Nasirabad Cantonment into a national model for transparent and participatory governance. The Southern Command Commendation underscores how dedicated leadership can bridge the gap between government and citizens, ensuring lasting improvements.
“When citizens see results, trust in governance grows — that’s our ultimate goal,” Dr. Gupta concluded.
With this recognition, Nasirabad’s success story now stands as an inspiration for urban local bodies across India.
