Bhubaneswar: The Housing and Urban Development Department completed the statewide rollout of the Odisha Secretariat Workflow Automation System (OSWAS), marking a major push towards digital governance.
The platform is now operational across 115 urban local bodies, replacing the traditional paper-based system with a streamlined and transparent digital workflow.
The system has been implemented in five Municipal Corporations, 48 Municipalities, and 62 Notified Area Councils. Developed with technical support from Odisha Computer Application Centre and backed by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), OSWAS has fully digitised file management in urban administration. It enables real-time tracking of file movement, faster approvals, and timely delivery of citizen services.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said the initiative will modernise governance and improve efficiency. “OSWAS will enhance transparency, speed, and accountability in urban administration while improving service delivery,” he said.
Earlier, municipal bodies faced delays due to manual file handling and a lack of coordination. The new system introduces standardised processes, automated workflows, and digital audit trails, ensuring greater efficiency and accountability.
The project was executed in phases, including process study, system design, training, and pilot testing, before being expanded statewide. Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee said the platform is a comprehensive administrative reform that supports real-time monitoring and data-driven decisions.
With features like a real-time dashboard, OSWAS allows continuous monitoring of file status, reducing delays and improving coordination among departments. The reform has led to faster file disposal, better document access, and a stronger digital governance framework.
Except for a few newly formed urban bodies, OSWAS is now fully functional across the state, setting a new benchmark in digital governance. The initiative is expected to play a key role in achieving the vision of a developed Odisha.
