KATHMANDU: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Arzu Rana Deuba has urged civil servants to be sensitive and responsible while providing service that have a direct bearing on citizens.

She said it while addressing an orientation organised by the Passport Department for the employees involved in passport service at the District Administration Offices of Sudrupaschim Province in Dhangadhi today.

“Passport is no longer a luxury but a fundamental right of every citizen. So, service providers must be serious in providing services in a timely and efficient way,” she reminded, urging prompt delivery of services.

Dr Rana informed that the government is working tirelessly to make service in the Sudurpaschim Province and other remote districts more convenient and inclusive. “The situation for obtaining a passport is not complicated compared to the previous time. However, I have heard that there are still some problems inconveniencing the service seekers. So, it is government’s duty to make the services simple, convenient and accessible.”

The Minister also sought suggestions from service seekers on how the passport-related services could be improved. “People should inform the government about the problems they face, and the government will make timely improvements acting on their suggestions,” she opined.