Manipur Governor launches cashless transport, e-License services
Summary of the News Article
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla of Manipur launched two transformative digital initiatives at Raj Bhavan on July 17, 2025: a Cashless Payment System for transport services and electronic Driving Licences (eDL) and electronic Registration Certificates (eRC). Starting July 18, citizens can use POS terminals, UPI, debit/credit cards, and other online methods to pay transport fees. From August 1, 2025, digital documents stored in DigiLocker and mParivahan apps will replace physical DLs and RCs, boosting transparency, convenience, and governance efficiency
1. Introduction: A Digital Leap for Manipur’s Transport Sector
Ever thought how a small tap on your phone or a card swipe can make your life easier? Well, that’s precisely what Manipur’s Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla did on July 17, 2025. He flipped the switch on two major digital advances: cashless payments for transport services and electronic licences/registration certificates (eDL & eRC). It’s like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone – suddenly, everything feels smarter, faster, and more convenient.
From July 18, you won’t need cash by the roadside or paperwork at the RTO. And come August 1, your driving licence and RC go digital too. Let’s dive deep into why this matters, how it works, and what it means for you.
2. Why This Digital Shift Matters
2.1 From Piles of Paper to Digital Clarity
Remember stacking papers months to renew your DL or RC? With eDL and eRC, those files vanish – replaced by secure digital copies you can access anytime on DigiLocker or mParivahan apps. No more fear of losing documents or scrambling during inspections.
2.2 One Platform, Many Services
Manipur is already on the national Parivahan Sewa portal, offering 32 transport-related services. Soon, more services will join. Imagine renewing your commercial vehicle permit, paying challans, or applying for fitness certificates – all from your phone.
2.3 PCI: Payments Without the Headache
Why haul cash when you can scan UPI codes or swipe cards? This is more than convenience; it’s safe, traceable, and cuts out corruption. No sweaty pockets, no long queues – just quick, digital transactions.
3. Milestones Unveiled: Timeline of Transformation
| Date | What Happens |
|---|---|
| July 17, 2025 | Governor officially unveils both digital schemes at Raj Bhavan. |
| July 18, 2025 | Cashless Payment System goes live across transport offices. |
| August 1, 2025 | Launch date for eDL and eRC documents via DigiLocker & mParivahan. |
4. How the Cashless Payment System Works
4.1 Multiple Payment Options
- Swipe a debit/credit card at POS terminals
- Scan a UPI QR code (Google Pay, PhonePe, BHIM, etc.)
- Other digital wallets and net banking
4.2 Streamlined Process
No forms. No mess. Just pay, get your receipt, and you’re done. It’s contactless and efficient – perfect for today’s pace.
4.3 Benefits That Count
- Transparency: Digital trail reduces misuse.
- Speed: Payments take seconds.
- Traceability: Easy tracking via apps.
FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
1. Can policemen verify eDL/eRC?
Yes. Both DigiLocker and mParivahan come with QR codes legally equivalent to physical documents. Keep your phone charged and have a backup PDF if needed.
2. What if I don’t have smartphone or internet?
Transport offices can issue a printed copy from the digital system. Officers can also use offline verification tools.
3. Are old DL/RC still valid?
Yes. Physical documents remain valid until expiry. After getting your digital copy, retire the physical permit.
4. What about app security?
Apps use encryption, 2-factor authentication, and are ISO certified. Follow basic smartphone hygiene – like updating apps and avoiding shady downloads.
5. What if my phone is lost/stolen?
Both apps allow remote deactivation and re-issuance via OTP and secure login.
