The Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed the Arunachal Pradesh Arun Parivar Authority Bill, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and transparency of welfare distribution through a family-based identification system. The bill, introduced by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on March 6, was passed via voice vote.
A key feature of the bill is the Arun Parivar Patra (APP) ID, a unique family identifier designed to streamline the allocation of government benefits. To oversee its implementation, the state will establish the Arunachal Pradesh Arun Parivar Patra Authority.
Deputy CM Mein emphasized that the APP ID would serve as a single-point identification system for families, reducing redundancies in welfare distribution. Eligible residents can apply online or through Common Service Centres (CSCs) by providing Aadhaar, proof of residence, and basic family details.
Ensuring Transparency and Security
The Arun Parivar Patra Authority will be responsible for:
Maintaining a Resident Data Repository
Setting operational guidelines for CSCs
Ensuring data security and privacy
Integrating the APP ID with existing welfare databases
Managing monitoring and grievance redressal mechanisms
To address privacy concerns, Mein assured that strong encryption and legal safeguards would be in place. Penalties will be imposed for unauthorized access, submission of false information, and corporate misuse of data. Additionally, the government plans to launch awareness campaigns to encourage enrollment, especially in rural areas.
Apart from the Arun Parivar Authority Bill, the assembly also cleared the Arunachal Pradesh Goods & Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, which updates the state’s GST Act of 2017. The amendment, introduced on March 6, was passed without opposition.
