X: @vivekbhavsar
Mumbai: In a significant move towards enhancing security and promoting a digital-first governance system, the Maharashtra government has decided to completely do away with the traditional paper pass entry system at Mantralaya, the state’s administrative headquarters, from August 1. Starting next month, only the digitally generated ‘Digi Prawesh Pass’ will be valid for entry into the premises.
This decision is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to modernise security protocols and streamline the entry process for visitors. The move also aligns with the larger objective of ensuring transparency, efficiency, and foolproof security at Mantralaya, which sees thousands of visitors, employees, and officials every day.
The new system, which replaces manual visitor passes, will function in tandem with the advanced face recognition technology recently installed at all entry points of Mantralaya. The facial recognition system was introduced under the supervision of then Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, acting on the directives of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This technology enables instant verification of identity, reducing human error and enhancing security by preventing unauthorized access.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has now instructed the Home Department to take the next step by eliminating the physical paper pass system entirely. The ‘Digi Prawesh Pass’ will not only ensure a smoother and faster entry but also integrate with the face recognition database, making the entry process contactless and more secure.
Confirming the development, Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, Dr. I.S. Chahal, said, “From August 1, no paper passes will be issued for Mantralaya entry. All visitors, journalists, contractors, and even government officials who do not have permanent access cards must apply for the Digi Prawesh Pass in advance. The system is linked to face recognition, ensuring seamless and secure verification at the gates.”
The Digi Prawesh system was introduced as a pilot project over the last few months, and according to officials, the feedback has been largely positive. The platform allows visitors to register online, upload identification documents, and receive a QR code-based digital pass on their mobile phones. This QR code is then scanned at the entry gates, where the face recognition system matches the visitor’s face with the digital record, allowing entry within seconds.
Government officials said this transition will help curb misuse of paper passes, reduce congestion at entry counters, and enhance surveillance capabilities. It is also expected to address long-standing security concerns flagged by intelligence agencies, which had raised alarms in the past about the possibility of forged or misused paper passes.
Mantralaya insiders also point out that this step is part of a broader ‘Smart Governance’ vision being implemented across various government departments in Maharashtra. By eliminating manual intervention wherever possible, the government aims to bring in more accountability and reduce security loopholes.
The Home Department has started issuing detailed guidelines and instructions to all departments and regular visitors regarding the Digi Prawesh system. Special help desks and online support have also been set up to assist users in generating their digital passes.
With this move, Maharashtra becomes one of the first states in the country to fully digitize entry management at its administrative headquarters, setting a new benchmark for e-governance and security protocols.
