Odisha Govt Launches Online Payment System For Electricity Bills By Panchayats

On Tuesday, the Odisha government introduced a new website and mobile app designed for the online payment of monthly electricity bills by panchayats. The platform, called the Government Consumer Management System (GCMS), was officially launched by Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo and Rural Development Minister Rabi Narayan Naik.

The GCMS system was developed through a collaborative effort involving the Energy Department, Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water Department, the National Informatics Centre (NIC), and Tata Power Ltd.

Currently, the government allocates approximately Rs 250 crore annually to cover electricity expenses for services such as street lighting and drinking water supply in panchayats. However, issues like delayed payments and the absence of an organized monitoring system have resulted in outstanding arrears, according to officials.

The new system is expected to streamline the payment process, significantly reduce arrears, and enhance overall efficiency in bill payments.