Government says that the National Mission Mode Project on e-governance in municipalities is a crucial initiative to improve operational efficiencies within urban local bodies. Speaking at the inaugural session of two-day workshop in New Delhi on Monday, Dr. M.Ramachandran, Secretary for Ministry of Urban Development said that such initiatives will ensure transparency and accountability in the governance by enhancing interface between citizens and local bodies.<br/><br/>He said that International Benchmarking network will be started in association with the World Bank to improve the quality of water and sanitation programmes in the country. Representatives from different states presented their points of view highlighting the sectors that lack development and infrastructure.<br/><br/>AIR correspondent reports that water supply is going to be the most highlighted issue at the workshop. Speakers from several Asian countries will be participating in the discussion to analyse the challenges faced in waste management and cost recovery.<br/><br/><br/><br/>