Printing crisis; blessing in disguise

One of the factors that are influencing our lives the most today is the growth of digital technology. Under normal circumstances, money is the object that man values the most. A few years ago, we couldn't have imagined paying for tea using our phones. One could not have imagined that a document related to an office could be obtained from a computer, without going to that office. Today, how many people are getting services through Akshaya Centres without having to go to any office?! All those who have travelled in a transport bus in the past are well versed in the dispute and quarrels in the name of change. This can be resolved through digital payment in one go. However, this was implemented in buses very late.

Only SWIFT buses have the facility to scan the QR code on the ticket machine and make payments. According to the department, this facility will soon come up in other buses as well. If such a payment facility can be availed even in tea stalls across the country, the delay in making it available in all buses is happening only because it is owned by a government-run corporation. The police don't even have to see the traffic violations in person to impose penalties. Similarly, there is no need to go and wait in any office to pay the penalty. It's all happening over the phone. At such a time, the news that the RC book and license are delayed due to non-printing has no relevance. If it is issued digitally, the crisis can be solved in one go.

However, the transport department had not thought of that method so far. The contracting company's decision to stop printing due to the non-availability of money had become news and controversial. In one way, this has actually become a boon. The transport department was forced to settle to issue the RC book, license, etc. digitally because of this. It has been decided to make RC books, licenses, etc. available on mobile phones from now on. Those who don't have a smartphone, just have to print and keep the QR-coded part of the digital license. How many crores of rupees can be saved on printing costs?! Five lakh RCs and 1.30 lakh driving licenses are yet to be issued in the state due to the printing crisis.

Though the Centre had approved digital copies six years ago, printed cards were mandatory in Kerala. The Department of Motor Vehicles is in the process of starting printing on its own to issue the card to those in need. Once digital, the license can be issued on the mobile on the same day that one passes the driving test. The worry of losing the card will be eliminated forever. Similarly, other departments issuing certificates should also shift completely to digital. It is still only partially implemented. The government and the services of the government have to change as the times change. In any case, it is a good thing that the curse of the printing crisis has finally led to a move that will benefit the people.