Government Unveils ‘Nagorik Sheba’: One-Stop Online Portal for Citizen Services

The Government of Bangladesh has launched a comprehensive digital platform named Nagorik Sheba Bangladesh—or simply Nagorik Sheba—to provide a wide range of public services through a unified online gateway. Complemented by physical service centres run by local entrepreneurs, the platform aims to streamline citizen access to essential government functions.

According to the Office of the Chief Adviser, from 1 May 2025, individuals can apply to become authorised service agents via the official website, www.nagoriksheba.gov.bd, while existing Union Digital Centres will be integrated into the system. Initially, around 100 services will be offered, with each ministry required to contribute at least two. Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb announced that a dedicated website and "super app" will serve as the single point of access, featuring a unified service gateway, billing aggregator, and payment system.

All applications will be digitally submitted and tracked, eliminating paperwork and in-person visits. A secure “national service bus” will facilitate data exchange between ministries, ensuring reliable and interoperable operations. To support service delivery, high-speed internet will be mandated at all centres, with ISPs expected to offer specialised broadband packages under government directives.

Entrepreneurs will receive training and certification from the Office of the Chief Adviser and the ICT Division. Certified agents will be equipped with official branding, uniforms, ID cards, and may access low-interest loans to establish service kiosks. Co-working spaces in public offices at district and upazila levels will also be made available initially to lower startup costs.

Nagorik Sheba is set to transform traditionally slow and inaccessible bureaucratic procedures into a modern, user-friendly experience. Citizens will be able to access services such as birth and death registration, NID and passport processing, land records, tax filing, utility payments, police reporting, and social security claims.

The initiative also aims to foster local employment and entrepreneurship. Inspired by the legacy of Professor Muhammad Yunus’ ‘Village Phone Lady’, the government envisions the emergence of a new profession centred around certified public service providers. Eventually, the model will evolve towards home-based digital service delivery, further expanding access and economic opportunity.