The higher education landscape in Bihar is on the cusp of a significant digital revolution. Universities and colleges across the state are rapidly moving towards becoming fully paperless, driven by the widespread adoption of the Samarth e-Governance portal. This ambitious initiative, supported by the Ministry of Education, seeks to digitize all academic and administrative functions, promising a future of greater efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The Digital Framework Replacing Paper
State Higher Education Director N K Agrawal confirmed that the Samarth e-Gov Suite is set to phase out traditional, manual processes. It will introduce a cohesive digital framework designed to drastically cut down paper use and encourage eco-friendly practices on campus. The platform digitally oversees the complete lifecycle for both students and employees. This includes everything from the initial stages of admission and recruitment to conducting examinations, tracking leave, and processing payroll.
By creating a single, secure digital repository for all records and data, the system removes the necessity for physical file storage and movement. Agrawal emphasized that this allows students and staff to access a wide range of services online. They can apply for admissions, monitor promotions, check results, and handle academic documents without the need for in-person visits or physical paperwork.
Automation and State-Wide Implementation
The director further explained that the portal will automate numerous internal workflows. Processes like leave approvals, financial management, and research project tracking will become more efficient and transparent, requiring minimal manual intervention. He noted that many central and state universities nationwide have already adopted or are in the process of adopting the Samarth portal. States like Uttar Pradesh and Odisha have plans for a full-scale transition, aiming to make Samarth the exclusive system for all their affiliated institutions.
In line with this national trend, higher education institutions in Bihar have received clear instructions. They must shift all official transactions—including admissions, examinations, and financial works—from manual to digital mode using the Samarth portal.
Progress Across Bihar's Universities
The transition is already underway at several key universities in the state. The Central University of South Bihar is actively using Samarth for its admission portal and other functions. Purnea University has also implemented the scheme for the benefit of its students and staff. Meanwhile, Patliputra University is deeply engaged in integrating the Samarth eGov Suite, with dedicated teams overseeing the seamless transition.
Patna University has begun its journey partially. Currently, transactions like salary payments are being processed through the Samarth portal. According to PU IQAC Director Birendra Prasad, other critical activities such as admissions and examinations will be integrated into the system soon.
A Push for Transparency and Support
To ensure the success of this digital overhaul, Education Minister Sunil Kumar has recently mandated that every activity of all universities must be visible on the portal. This directive aims to bring unprecedented transparency to their operations. To facilitate this goal and provide ongoing support, a special cell has been established within the Bihar State Higher Education Council. This cell will monitor the implementation progress and offer technical assistance to universities navigating the digital transition.
The collective move towards the Samarth portal marks a decisive step for Bihar's higher education sector. It aligns with a broader national push for digital governance, setting the stage for more streamlined, accessible, and transparent academic administration in the state.
