Make all payments & receipts in Assam government digital, says Sarbananda Sonowal

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has directed to make all payments and receipts in the State Government digitally in a time bound manner.

The Chief Minister discussed with representatives of RBI, all major Bankers, BSNL and important departments of State Government on various measures to be adopted for digital payment.

It was decided in the meeting that the Departments will examine the possibility of amending relevant Acts and Rules so that enablers for digital payment such as availability of POS machine etc. could be made compulsory. Departments will also explore the possible incentives for digital payments and disincentives for cash payments.

As regards non-governmental entities like private hospitals, educational institutions, shops and establishments, all concerned departments would issue necessary advisory or directions so that digital payment becomes a norm within a fixed time frame.

Chief Minister directed BSNL and IT Department to work on the shadow areas and address the issue in a time bound manner to improve connectivity.

Chief Minister also instructed Banks and concerned departments to carry out sensitization drive for representatives of Gaon Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies about the advantages of digital payment through a committee at the district level under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioners.