CBIC to switch over from files to mobile app as part of digitisation drive

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) will do away with manual handling of files through a completely digitised e-Office app for Central GST and Customs officers, part of the information technology led reforms being undertaken for bettering trade.

The app, launched on Monday in over 500 CGST and Customs offices across India, will ensure speedier decision making, transparency, accountability, faster disposal of cases while enabling enhanced security as no file or document can be altered or destroyed or backdated.

“Over 50,000 officers and staff will use this application making CBIC one of the largest government departments to automate its internal office procedures,” the Board said in a statement.

An in-built monitoring mechanism would identify where the files are held up enabling quick disposal and faster decision making. The app was launched by CBIC Chairman Ajit Kumar.

The Board added that using the app will reduce paper usage, thereby reducing contact with physical files thereby preventing possible transmission of any virus. “This becomes relevant in present-day challenging situation arising due to Covid 19,” the Board noted.

The e-Office application is developed by the NIC and is supported by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG). E-Office aims to improve governance by automating the internal processes of handling files and taking decisions within Government.

The e-Office application’s main module, eFile, enables on-line file related work, starting from receiving and marking dak, operating a file, preparing a draft letter, its approval/signature and dispatch of the signed letter. The app is a Mission Mode Project (MMP) under the National e-Governance of India.