Now, e-payment of welfare funds

In an effort to bring transparency and accountability in the disbursement of funds for welfare schemes, the Punjab government on Wednesday issued instructions for the release of such funds through the electronic transfer system, instead of the existing cheque system.

Finance minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa said in a statement here that the orders had been issued as per directions of chief minister Parkash Singh Badal.

Dhindsa said the transfer of funds through the electronic system or e-payment would save time, besides bringing accountability and transparency in financial management.

The departments concerned have been told to strictly implement the system by October 31, 2012.

This system, the minister said, would also enable beneficiaries to get financial assistance directly from banks on the same day.