The Department of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Institutions in Karnataka has announced plans to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI)-based GPS tracking system to monitor the activities of gram panchayats and their field staff. This initiative aims to enhance accountability, transparency, and efficiency in these local bodies, which play a crucial role in village development and the implementation of state and central government schemes.
Scope of Implementation
Nearly 6,000 gram panchayats operate under the department, including 275 in Mysuru district. The decision comes in response to complaints that many staff members either do not remain in the office or claim to be engaged in outdoor work without proper verification. The system is also intended to address habitual lateness among employees.
Features of the AI-Based System
The AI-powered GPS tracking will be integrated with employee attendance systems. It will capture photographs of employees, provide real-time location data, and ensure transparency in attendance records. This move follows the ineffectiveness of the biometric attendance system, which relied on fingerprint authentication and suffered from technical and server glitches.
Officials stated that the new system will help end issues such as staff arriving late or leaving during work hours. The AI-driven approach ensures that gram panchayat staff work on time and remain accountable for their whereabouts.
Transition Preparations
Mysuru ZP Deputy Secretary M Krishnaraju confirmed that oral directions have been given to the staff to prepare for the transition to the GPS tracking attendance system. The department is now moving forward with the implementation to improve governance at the grassroots level.
