Key Facts
In a significant move towards digital banking, the Indian Postal Department has extended e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer) biometric transaction facilities to branch post offices across Himachal Pradesh. Previously, this service was limited only to sub-post offices. Now, customers can conduct transactions ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 using their thumb impressions at branch offices.
Details of the New Facility
According to officials, the e-KYC based biometric authentication allows account holders to perform the following transactions without any documentary formalities:
- Withdrawals: Up to ₹20,000 from savings bank accounts.
- Deposits: Up to ₹50,000 in savings accounts, recurring deposit accounts, and Sukanya Samriddhi accounts.
Customers must link their Aadhaar card and mobile number to their post office account to avail of the facility. The biometric authentication ensures secure and hassle-free transactions, especially for those who are not tech-savvy.
Impact on Pensioners and Rural Customers
The new system is expected to greatly benefit pensioners and elderly citizens who often face difficulties in visiting main post offices. They can now withdraw their pensions and other benefits from nearby branch post offices using their thumb impressions. Additionally, beneficiaries of government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) can also withdraw funds biometrically.
Ravindra Kumar Sharma, Superintendent of Post Offices, Dharamshala, stated, "The Indian Postal Department has made e-KYC based digital transaction facilities available at all branch post offices under the Dharamshala division. Account holders can link their accounts with mobile numbers and complete the e-KYC process to benefit from digital banking services."
What Customers Should Know
To use the biometric facility, customers need to ensure their Aadhaar card is updated and linked to their post office account. The service is available at all branch post offices in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the Dharamshala region. This move is part of the government's push towards a less-cash economy and financial inclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new biometric facility at post offices in Himachal?
The Indian Postal Department has introduced e-KYC based biometric authentication at branch post offices, allowing transactions between ₹20,000 and ₹50,000 without paperwork.
Who benefits most from this facility?
Pensioners and elderly citizens benefit the most as they can withdraw money using thumb impressions. Beneficiaries of schemes like Kisan Samman Nidhi can also withdraw funds biometrically.
What is the transaction limit for savings accounts?
Account holders can withdraw up to ₹20,000 from savings bank accounts and deposit up to ₹50,000 in savings, recurring, or Sukanya Samriddhi accounts using Aadhaar-based biometric authentication.
Can I transact at any branch post office?
Yes, eligible account holders can conduct transactions at any branch post office, making banking easier for rural customers.
Source: www.amarujala.com