Sini George who runs an Akshaya centre at Alinchuvadu, Ernakulam received recognition from the Central government

During the fiscal year 2022-23, Ms. George's facility has emerged as the most productive in terms of expanding passport services in the country. During the time period, the facility successfully submitted 2,224 passport applications. On Wednesday, she got the award from Alkesh Kumar Sharma, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, during a gathering commemorating Common Service Centre Diwas in New Delhi.

The centre submits applications with the use of an id and password assigned to it by the Union government. Individuals can apply online by generating their own id, but for fear of submitting defective applications, most utilise common service centres such as Akshaya. "We have trained staff with experience in passport services, which helps to ensure efficient and timely service to citizens." "We've been providing passport services since they went digital," said Ms. George, who has been running the centre for 14 years. 

Ms. George has also increased her social media outreach since the emergence of COVID-19, as human connections have come to a standstill. She did, however, manage to transform the issue into an opportunity by continuing to provide services to residents by gathering information via WhatsApp. Even when the pandemic-related limitations were lifted, she continued to build her social media influence. This has allowed her to contact more clients and finally win two prizes in a row.

"Passport applicants can use WhatsApp to send required documents such as their SSLC book and Aadhaar card." "We file applications and schedule appointments for them at Passport Seva Kendras at a time and date that is convenient for them," Ms. George explained.