Himachal News, Baddi – The Himachal Pradesh government has taken a significant step toward making the process of identifying Below Poverty Line (BPL) beneficiaries more transparent and fair. A new notification has introduced a two-tier verification system that involves committees at both the Panchayat and Sub-Divisional levels. This system is designed to prevent ineligible individuals from entering the BPL list and to ensure that rightful beneficiaries are not excluded.
According to officials in Baddi, Solan district, the last date to submit BPL applications and a mandatory declaration form has been set as April 30. This move is expected to enhance accountability and reduce arbitrary practices in the BPL selection process.
Block Development Officer (BDO) Nalagarh, Mr. Nayon Dairya Sharma, elaborated on the new mechanism. He stated that in the past, the BPL selection process received numerous complaints, especially regarding the inclusion of ineligible individuals and the exclusion of deserving ones. To resolve these concerns, the department has introduced this new system, aiming to bring clarity and fairness.
BDO Sharma explained, “Under the revised guidelines, the role of the Gram Sabha remains intact. However, now a verification committee at the Panchayat level will conduct an in-depth investigation into each application. This committee will consist of the Patwari (revenue officer), the Panchayat Secretary, and an Anganwadi worker. They will verify the income and eligibility of each applicant and submit a detailed report to the Gram Sabha.”
He further informed that earlier the BPL selection process was expected to conclude by March 31, but due to the new notification, the deadline has been extended to April 30. During this period, new applications will be accepted, and individuals already included in the BPL list will be required to submit a declaration to reconfirm their eligibility.
All relevant information has been displayed on Panchayat notice boards, and official letters have been sent to Patwaris and Panchayat Secretaries. This ensures that both applicants and officials are aware of the updated process and deadlines.
The verification committees will begin scrutinizing the applications from next week. Each case will be individually reviewed, and the final report will be submitted to the Gram Sabha sessions scheduled in June and July. If any applicant is found to have become ineligible—such as exceeding the prescribed income limit or owning a pucca (permanent) house—they may be removed from the list. In such cases, newly eligible individuals will be added.
BDO Sharma emphasized, “Our objective is to ensure that only deserving individuals receive the benefits of BPL schemes. This new system will play a vital role in promoting social justice and equality in rural areas.” He appealed to all eligible residents to submit their applications and declarations within the deadline.
The initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to strengthening welfare delivery mechanisms in rural areas. The introduction of a structured and transparent selection process is expected to restore trust among the public and make welfare schemes more effective.
In conclusion, this two-tier verification model stands as a progressive reform that upholds fairness and accountability in welfare distribution. It aims to build a more inclusive and equitable support system for the underprivileged population of Himachal Pradesh.
