Management of BDO Office database - all BDOs must take stock of MIS and Office management to face challenges

I am drawing the attention of SDOs and BDOs to the need for effective data management and information dissemination/ accessibility on rural development schemes from block office, to prevent blockage of BDO chamber by genuine information seekers. Can one imagine that with new policy of disbursement of IAY, Pension funds from Block, through institutional system, instead of GPs from next month onwards, office of BDO is likely to be bombarded with lots of information seekers; most of them violently pressing for information and queries on status of their pension cases/ IAY cheque. In most probability, majority of those visiting the BDO office shall try to enter BDO chamber and expect direct reply. Imagine GPs shirking their responsibilities for obvious reasons and directing people to BDO office if they have any queries regarding these schemes. What is the solution?

I shall suggest some of the steps as noted below if BDOs wants to works in peace.

1. Establish dedicated MIS cell with sufficient space and information counter for public access to information. If required upgrade sitting arrangements and construct counters/ sheds for public. Ask BIO, CA and other MIS personnel to sit at a place together.
2. Provide more computers, may be purchase new out of NREGA administrative cost and connect all computers by LAN. All database on BPL, IAY, Pensions must be available in this cell in such a form which can be easily accessed and query based. BDO must personally check that RHS database is updated, individual details on IAY for three years, IAY permanent wait list, IGNOAPS, AAY, Other department pensions etc as per module provided is entered in the RHS 3.0.0.
3. Additional hard disk/ storage devices can be provided to MIS cell for back up.
4. Provide two telephone lines to this cell with one line having broadband facility. If BSNL BB is not available, suscribe any service provider with monthly bill not exceeding Rs 1000 pm.
5. There should be training to MIS staff and others sitting in the cell as to how to share information with public.
6. Prepare formats for monthly scroll of pensions, advice to bank/ post office etc so that the huge volume of preparing pensions bills from block can be handled smoothly. Please note that any delay in payment shall invite troubles to BDO office.
7. Jt BDO can be given the responsibility of coordinating the public information related matters.

BDOs must also ensure publication of BPL with page certificate and certification as per revised approval by 10th October 2009 and send two copy each at GP, district head quarter for records.