How have you transformed DDA?
I have worked on various aspects — transparency, efficiency, computerisation. I also tried to change the work culture in DDA. Nobody here was interested in working. It is such a big organisation and there are many things in play here, like files that cannot be traced, a complex web of middlemen, etc. I still cannot claim to have completely revolutionised the culture here, but I tried to make changes.
With news of your promotion and a new posting, are you apprehensive about the projects you started work on?
Many of the works I started here are yet to complete. I am very apprehensive about what will happen to them once I leave. There are many important policies that will move only if they are pursued ruthlessly by my successor. Here in DDA, if you want anything to be done, you have to pursue it ruthlessly. Every morning when I step out of my house, I prepare a small note with the work to be done in the order of priority.
Any changes you brought to eliminate corruption?
I brought policy level changes to eliminate corruption. For example, I allowed conversion without registered agreement or a sanctioned map but with riders; opened Nagrik Suvidha Kendra, and cut down on the need for various documents. Policies were framed and sent to the government, and most of the things done are irreversible. These will ensure progress.
How has your stay in the DDA been?
This has been my most challenging posting. This is the first job where I felt I was able to use my potential to the optimum.
