The Punjab government has issued a directive requiring all public offices across the province to fully transition to a digital filing system by July 1. This move is part of a comprehensive administrative reform aimed at eliminating manual paperwork and reducing operational costs.
Transition to e-FOAS
The expansion of the e-Filing and Office Automation System (e-FOAS), which is already operational in provincial departments and attached bodies, will now extend to all regional and district offices. After the deadline, these offices will no longer be permitted to use manual file-based correspondence.
Officials estimate that the shift will significantly reduce administrative overhead worth billions of rupees annually. The system is designed to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and cut down on the use of paper and physical storage.
Directive from Chief Secretary
The directive was issued by Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman during a Secretaries Conference held at the Civil Secretariat on Monday. The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, Senior Member Board of Revenue, and provincial secretaries, while divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners joined via video link.
The Chief Secretary emphasized that the digital system is being introduced to improve transparency and accountability in government operations. He urged all departments to ensure a smooth transition and to provide necessary training to staff members.
This initiative aligns with the government's broader vision of digital transformation and e-governance, aiming to make public services more accessible and efficient for citizens.
