Citizen Charter
A **Citizen Charter** is an official declaration document issued by a government office, Local Self-Government Institution, or public service institution describing the services provided to citizens. The document clearly specifies the services offered by the institution, the procedures for obtaining the services, the time limits, the officers responsible, the rights of citizens, and the grievance redress mechanism.
### Main Objectives of the Citizen Charter
* To ensure **transparency** in public services
* To ensure that services are provided **within the prescribed time limit**
* To create awareness among citizens about their **rights**
* To increase the **accountability** of government offices
* To ensure **quick resolution of complaints and grievances**
Important Details Included in the Citizen Charter
1. Introduction/profile of the institution
2. List of services available
3. Documents required for each service
4. Time limit for obtaining each service
5. Details of the responsible officers
6. Service fees, if applicable
7. Grievance redressal mechanisms
8. Instructions to be followed by citizens
### Examples of Services Provided by a Grama Panchayat
* Issuance of Birth and Death Certificates
* Building Construction Permits
* Collection of Taxes
* Issuance of Licences
* Acceptance and processing of applications for social welfare schemes
* Other services provided by the Grama Panchayat
