CHANDIGARH, 26 Sept — In a first-of-its-kind reform, the Chandigarh Administration has digitised the permission process for major festive events, allowing Ramleela and Dussehra organisers to obtain approvals fully online. Officials said the move has ensured faster, more transparent, and hassle-free clearances.
This year, 76 Ramleela stages across the city were granted permissions entirely through the digital system, with approvals processed within just seven days. A “deemed approval” clause was also introduced, under which applications are considered cleared if no department raises objections within the stipulated period. The measure eliminated delays that previously forced committees to wait weeks for nods.
Organisers welcomed the change, calling it a rare example of governance keeping pace with cultural traditions. “We were given the permission without chasing files or visiting offices, which saved us much time, energy, and botheration that we used to go through earlier,” said Dinesh Kumar, who organises Ramleela in Dhanas.
The Administration has also digitised the licensing process for the sale of firecrackers ahead of Diwali. More than 4,000 applicants filed for licences, and an online draw of lots allotted 96 designated vending sites across Chandigarh.
Amit Singla, one of the successful applicants, expressed relief. “I got lucky in the e-lottery to get a cracker stall much in advance. This has given me time to arrange stocks and make other preparations to cash in on the Diwali rush,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav described the reforms as another leap toward building a “Digital Chandigarh.” He noted that the shift to online permissions would promote ease of doing business while supporting cultural traditions with efficiency and responsibility.
Officials said the new system sets a benchmark in citizen-centric governance that other states could adopt. With permissions digitised, cultural committees are able to focus on rehearsals, stage setups, and community participation, while traders benefit from timely approvals. The Administration said the effort will ensure smoother, safer, and more joyful celebrations during the festive season.
