https://indianmasterminds.com

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

Hello Bageshwar: A Digital Lifeline Connecting Citizens to Change

A simple phone call can lead to real change! Learn how DM Ashish Bhatgain’s "Hello Bageshwar Help Desk" is transforming public services and supporting rural entrepreneurs.
Indian Masterminds Stories

When Ashish Bhatgain, a 2017 batch IAS officer of the Uttarakhand cadre, took charge as the District Magistrate of Bageshwar, he brought with him a fresh perspective and a passion for public service. One of his latest initiatives, the “Hello Bageshwar Help Desk,” is transforming how the district addresses public grievances and supports self-employment opportunities.

Launched recently from the Collectorate premises, this helpline—9412995958—is a simple yet impactful step to make government services more accessible, especially for rural residents who often struggle to get their voices heard.

In an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds, the officer shared details about the same.

A HELP DESK FOR EVERY CITIZEN

The Hello Bageshwar Help Desk isn’t just a phone number; it’s a bridge between the people and the administration. Citizens can call to report grievances or seek guidance on various government schemes. Once a complaint is logged, it’s routed directly to the relevant department for swift resolution.

“What we are doing here is eliminating the barriers that often discourage people from seeking help,” said Bhatgain. “This initiative is about making governance accessible and showing people that their concerns matter.”

The help desk also tracks the status of pending applications under government schemes like the Prime Minister’s Employment Scheme, the Chief Minister’s Employment Scheme, and the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). This ensures that no beneficiary falls through the cracks due to bureaucratic delays.

EMPOWERING RURAL ENTREPRENEURS

A unique aspect of Hello Bageshwar is its focus on self-employment. Beneficiaries of government schemes are often unaware of the opportunities available to them or struggle with practical challenges in implementing their projects. The help desk provides these individuals with tailored advice, ensuring that they can make the most of what the government has to offer.

“Our goal is not just to resolve complaints but to guide people toward solutions. If someone has opted for self-employment but is facing hurdles, we’ll help them overcome those challenges,” Bhatgain told Indian Masterminds.

MAKING ACCESSIBILITY A PRIORITY

The DM is particularly proud of the help desk’s role in reaching remote areas. In a district like Bageshwar, where hilly terrain can make it difficult for residents to visit government offices, the helpline offers a much-needed alternative.

“For someone in a remote village, traveling to the district headquarters could mean an entire day lost. With Hello Bageshwar, all they need is a phone. It’s about meeting people where they are,” he shared.

The initiative is currently operating on a trial basis. Based on public response, the helpline may soon be upgraded to a toll-free number, further increasing its accessibility.

A PROMISING START

Since its launch, Hello Bageshwar has already received positive feedback. From addressing delayed pension applications to resolving issues with bank loans for self-employment schemes, the help desk is proving to be a valuable resource for the people of Bageshwar.

Looking ahead, Bhatgain and his team are committed to refining the system and expanding its scope. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “Our mission is to make governance simpler and more effective for everyone.”

THE MAN BEHIND THE INITIATIVE

Ashish Bhatgain’s journey as an IAS officer has always been about finding practical solutions to real-world problems. His approachable demeanor and hands-on leadership style make him a favorite among colleagues and residents alike.

By focusing on accessibility, efficiency, and inclusivity, the DM is ensuring that the people of Bageshwar not only have their grievances heard but also see tangible results. Through Hello Bageshwar, he’s sending a clear message: governance isn’t about paperwork—it’s about people.


Indian Masterminds Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
NEWS
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC on Implementation of Safeguards for Scheduled Tribe Employees
MP CM Collector Award Niti Aayog
Sampurnata Abhiyan: Madhya Pradesh Leads NITI Aayog Campaign; Collectors from 8 Districts Win Gold
Mohan Yadav
MP CM Mohan Yadav Pushes for Sustainable, Community-Driven Rural Water Policy; Targets 100% Tap Coverage by March 2027
Ajay Bhadoo IAS
IAS Ajay Bhadoo Gets Extended Term as DGFT - What It Means & His Career Journey
THDCIL_Receives_ABMS_Certification_for_Integrity_and_Transparency
THDC India (THDCIL) Awarded ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Certification by BIS - Details Inside
Ministry of Environment
Environment Ministry Clarifies Petrol Vehicle Tender, Cites E-Vehicle Flexibility
Bokaro Steel Plant
PESB Selects Priya Ranjan to Head Bokaro Steel Plant, SAIL’s Key Production Unit
REC Limited wins ‘Best Design Thinking Award’ at 5th Distinguished NBFC (DNA) Awards
REC Limited Bags ‘Best Design Thinking Award’ at 5th Distinguished NBFC Awards
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
Dr
Resisted Flawed Schemes, Transferred Thrice In Three Months, Found Solace In Writing
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-11 at 4.48
IAS SVR Srinivas on Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, Tough Calls, and the Real Power of IAS Officers | Video Interview
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-08 at 5.25
Dharavi Redevelopment: IAS Minds Turning 100-Year-Old Slum into a Modern City | Video Interview
ADVERTISEMENT
UPSC Stories
IAS Minnu P M
“Lazy, Sleepy, Yet Determined”: Minnu P M’s Honest Take on Cracking UPSC
Minnu PM, once a clerk in Kerala Police, cleared UPSC with AIR 150 after five years of struggle. Her...
IPS Ashish Tiwari
From IIT and Investment Banking to Public Service, Meet IPS Ashish Tiwari 
Ashish Tiwari, IIT graduate and former investment banker, chose public service over global finance. As...
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-12 at 7.27
First Attempt IRS, Fourth Attempt IPS: The Relentless Pursuit of Jitendra Kumar Yadav Who Cracked UPSC 3 Times
IPS Yadav is originally from Chhattisgarh. He was first selected for the IRS through UPSC and later for...
Social Media
Masahiro Hara
From Go Board to Global Use, How QR Codes Changed the World: IRAS Officer Ananth Rupanagudi Spotlights Masahiro Hara’s Vision
IRAS officer Ananth Rupanagudi shared a video on Masahiro Hara, the inventor of QR codes, highlighting...
IFS Susanta Nanda Video
A Mother’s Duty: Tigress Watches Over Cubs Splashing in Waterhole — Heartwarming Video Shared By Retd. IFS Officer Susanta Nanda
A tender wildlife video shared by Retd. IFS officer Susanta Nanda shows a tigress keeping watch over...
Mohanmala
Kaziranga Mourns: Beloved Elephant Mohanmala Passes Away After Five Decades of Service
Kaziranga National Park mourns the loss of Mohanmala, a beloved elephant who served over 50 years as...
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest
IFS S Krithiga
Eco-Friendly Cottages, Tribal Cuisine, and Conservation: Inside Tamil Nadu’s Pachamalai Project
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC on Implementation of Safeguards for Scheduled Tribe Employees
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
Dr
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-11 at 4.48
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-08 at 5.25
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT