In a major decision to facilitate the masses, the Punjab Government has authorised the Block Development and Panchayat Officers (BDPOs) to issue rural area certificates instead of sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) or Tehsildars.On the recommendation of Governance Reforms Department, the Punjab Government has already issued a notification in this regard.“The Punjab Government has now authorised the Block Development Officers (BDOs) as designated officer to issue rural area certificates besides authorising District Development and Panchayat Officers (DDPOs) as first appellate and Deputy Commissioners as second appellate authority,” said an official spokesperson of State’s Rural Development and Panchayat Department.
He said that it was made mandatory for the Rural Development and Panchayat Department to grant certificate in 15 days after receiving the application according to the time limit notified by the Punjab Government under Right to Service Act.Applicant should fill the recommended Performa and it should be attested by Panchayat secretary or Sarpanch of the concerned village, he said.“Besides, applicant would have to pay Rs25 as fee along with a copy of Aadhar card and a proof of residence. In case of minor, the applicant’s application must be signed by his or her parents or guardian,”he added.