The Right to Public Service (RTPS) initiative in Bihar, launched in 2011 under the e-District Mission Mode Project, is a transformative platform designed to deliver government services transparently and efficiently to citizens. Managed by the Bihar government’s Department of Information Technology, RTPS Bihar ensures timely access to essential documents like caste, income, residential, birth, and death certificates through its user-friendly online portal, serviceonline.bihar.gov.in. This article explores the features, services, and impact of RTPS Bihar.
What is RTPS Bihar?
RTPS stands for Right to Public Service, a state-level implementation of the Bihar Right to Public Services Act. It aims to reduce bureaucratic delays, curb corruption, and enhance transparency by allowing citizens to apply for services online or via Common Service Centers (CSCs). The platform, powered by the ServicePlus framework of the National Informatics Centre (NIC), streamlines processes and holds government departments accountable for timely service delivery.
Key Services Offered
RTPS Bihar provides a wide range of time-bound services, including:
- General Administration Department: Issuance of caste, income, residential, non-creamy layer (NCL), economically weaker section (EWS), and domicile certificates.
- Home Department: Character and conduct certificates for background verification.
- Labour Resources Department: Applications for the Bihar State Non-Resident Labour Accident Compensation Scheme.
- Planning and Development Department: Birth and death certificates.
- Tatkal Services: Expedited issuance of caste and residential certificates for urgent needs.
Certificates are typically issued within 7 to 30 days, depending on the service, with strict timelines enforced to ensure accountability.
How to Apply for Services
Citizens can access RTPS services through two primary methods:
- Online Application:
- Visit serviceonline.bihar.gov.in.
- Register using the MeriPehchaan National Single Sign-On (NSSO) portal with details like mobile number, name, and password.
- Log in, select the desired service (e.g., caste or income certificate), and fill out the application form.
- Upload required documents, such as Aadhaar, voter ID, or address proof, and a passport-size photo (<300 KB).
- Submit the form and note the Application Reference Number for tracking.
- Aadhaar authentication via OTP is required if an Aadhaar number is provided; otherwise, one of 12 recognized identity proofs must be uploaded.
- Common Service Centers (CSCs):
- Visit a nearby CSC for offline application submission, ideal for areas with limited internet access.
- Executive Assistants (EAs) at CSCs guide applicants and print acknowledgments for record-keeping.
Tracking Application Status
To check the status of an application:
- Navigate to the Citizen Section on serviceonline.bihar.gov.in.
- Select Track Application Status.
- Enter the Application Reference Number and submission date.
- The portal displays real-time updates, such as whether the application is under review, approved, or rejected.
Downloading Certificates
Once approved, certificates are delivered via:
- SMS download link.
- Email attachment.
- DigiLocker.
- ServicePlus inbox (for logged-in users).
- Portal download link or CSCs/kiosks.
To download:
- Go to the Citizen Section and click Download Certificate.
- Enter the Application Reference Number and applicant’s name.
- The certificate is downloaded in PDF format.
Features and Benefits
RTPS Bihar has revolutionized public service delivery with its robust features:
- Convenience: Eliminates the need for repeated visits to government offices.
- Transparency: Real-time tracking and SMS/email notifications keep applicants informed.
- Accountability: Departments face scrutiny for delays, ensuring adherence to deadlines.
- Accessibility: Available online and through CSCs, catering to both urban and rural populations.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple navigation and integration with MeriPehchaan for seamless login.
- Mobile App: The ServicePlus Bihar app, available on Google Play Store, enhances accessibility.
The portal supports over 30 essential services, making it a one-stop solution for citizens’ documentation needs.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite its success, RTPS Bihar faces occasional challenges:
- Technical Issues: Website downtime has been reported, prompting the government to promote the ServicePlus app as an alternative.
- Digital Literacy: Rural citizens may struggle with online processes, addressed by expanding CSC networks and training Executive Assistants.
- Document Verification: Provisional verifications require final approval, which can cause delays. The government is working to streamline backend processes.
Impact on Bihar’s Citizens
RTPS Bihar has significantly improved governance by:
- Saving Time and Effort: Citizens can apply for and download certificates from home.
- Reducing Corruption: Transparent processes minimize intermediaries.
- Empowering Rural Communities: CSCs and the mobile app bridge the digital divide.
- Promoting Digital Governance: Integration with DigiLocker and MeriPehchaan aligns with India’s Digital India initiative.
The platform’s success is evident in its widespread adoption, with millions of applications processed annually. Its recognition as a model for e-governance has sparked discussions nationwide.