KOCHI: The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) is all set to take the e-way in managing files and documents. With a large number of cases being registered every year, VACB is finding it extremely difficult to preserve files and documents and retrieve them in proper form years later.
It has now decided to introduce Electronic File Management System (EFMS) in its headquarters and regional and district-level offices across Kerala.
"A proposal was put forward in the Department Working Group regarding the introduction EFMS. VACB has been facing difficulty in preserving hard copies of case files and other documents for long years. Later, Keltron came up with a detailed proposal," a VACB officer said."In its proposal submitted to the Vigilance Director, Keltron estimated a cost of `30 lakh for acquiring EFMS. Later, the proposal was sent to the government for administrative sanction. We received the sanction two weeks ago and the tender proceedings will start soon," he said.
A software will be developed and used for creating and storing files at each VACB office. Training will be imparted to officers to handle the new system. "Every year, around 50-100 Vigilance cases are registered across Kerala. Similarly, there will be files related to administrative purposes. Paper use can be reduced to an extent once operations are carried out in electronic format. Similarly, it can be accessed centrally at the VACB headquarters," the officer said.
Earlier, the state Police Department had started various services in electronic format, enabling online registration of FIRs. Also, the details of FIRs can be accessed online. The Kerala Government had also initiated measures to provide services to the public online. Though some of the projects have been functioning successfully, some others are yet to take off.