Bhagalpur Deputy Development Commissioner Takes Strict Action Over e-KYC Verification Lapses
In a significant administrative move, Bhagalpur deputy development commissioner (DDC) Pradeep Kumar Singh has ordered a substantial reduction in the basic honorarium of 27 panchayat rozgar sevaks. The punitive action involves a 15% to 25% cut in their remuneration for a period of six months, following serious lapses in the verification of Electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) documentation for active job cardholders.
Review Meeting Reveals Systemic Failures
The disciplinary measures were implemented during a comprehensive review meeting that assessed the progress of e-KYC verification under the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin). This initiative is being executed through the Viksit Bharat – G RAM G Act, 2025, which has replaced the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with a new statutory framework aligned with the broader Viksit Bharat 2047 mission.
During the evaluation with district officials, it became evident that several panchayat rozgar sevaks had demonstrated insufficient seriousness and responsibility in their duties. This negligence resulted in what officials described as extremely poor e-KYC achievement rates across the district, compromising the implementation of critical rural employment guarantees.
Official Statement and Future Warnings
When contacted for clarification, DDC Pradeep Kumar Singh stated, "Administrative action was taken against lax and irresponsible panchayat rozgar sevaks for failing to achieve the requisite targets for verifying the e-KYC of active job cardholders." He emphasized that the personnel had been explicitly warned that more severe consequences, including potential termination of their contracts, would follow if any further negligence, indifference, or laxity was detected in their professional responsibilities.
An official familiar with the Viksit Bharat – G RAM G initiative explained that the program aims to guarantee up to 125 days of employment per rural household annually, thereby strengthening income security beyond the previous 100-day limit established under earlier schemes. This makes proper e-KYC verification essential for accurate beneficiary identification and resource allocation.
Broader Review of Government Schemes
In a related development, the DDC separately reviewed e-KYC processes and farmer registration under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme on Friday. During this assessment, officials were directed to ensure that no eligible farmer is deprived of benefits due to administrative or procedural shortcomings.
This dual focus on employment guarantee programs and agricultural support schemes highlights the administration's commitment to streamlining digital verification processes across multiple welfare initiatives. The actions taken in Bhagalpur serve as a clear message to field functionaries about the importance of diligence in implementing government programs that directly impact rural livelihoods and economic security.
