The CBIC has taken a huge step forward – and a long awaited one – to automate it’s internal processes at its Custom and CGST offices across India. Initially 50,000 officers will work on the new software. The National Informatics Center (NIC), supported by the Deptt. of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, has developed the software. Among its many modules, the primary one is “eFile”. It is expected to automate the following processes: 1. Online file related work 2. Receiving and marking “daak” 3. Operating a file 4. Preparing a draft letter 5. Approval and final despatch of the letter Whether this makes the life of those who deal with the department any easier or not, only time will tell. For sure there will be a learning curve for the department officials so it may take a while for difference to be visible. The implementation itself is a bold decision and a welcome step towards faceless departmental interactions in future.
