Face Forward: Haryana’s Digital Leap in Welfare Verification

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In a major tech-enabled drive, the Haryana Government is all set to launch a face verification mobile application to facilitate quicker verification of welfare schemes. The move is aimed at making the self-certification process for over 36 lakh pensioners and social security pensioners simpler.

Key Aspects of the Initiative

The application will enable beneficiaries to fill in life certificates by themselves twice a year on their phones and there won't be any requirement to make in-person visits.

It is now in the final test phase and would be pilot tested in Panchkula and Ambala districts this August before it is launched in the state.

The application is intended to help update records and remove deceased beneficiaries from the system to keep data in balance.

Inclusive Support and Access

Beneficiaries without smartphones can access the app via Common Service Centres (CSCs) and local SEWA offices.

SEWA Department will initially give priority to assisting those with technological issues, so that everyone is not left behind.

Based on Successful Models

The scheme is modelled after successful schemes in Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu.

Haryana officials met Rajasthan officials earlier this year to learn from its digital model of welfare before they created their own version.

Beneficiary Breakdown

21.96 lakh elderly people get Old Age Samman Allowance

8.88 lakh widows and 2.09 lakh disabled individuals are on the pension rolls

Additional aid extends to people with dwarfism, transgenders, underprivileged children, and patients with rare diseases

This application represents an important move towards digitalizing welfare payments, making it easier, and enhancing transparency in social welfare systems.

Sources: The Tribune, Drishti IAS, PIB India, GKToday, Optimize IAS