Bhopal: The Forest Department has expressed deep concern over recurring financial irregularities reported across various forest divisions. VN Ambade, Head of the Forest Force, has instructed immediate corrective measures to strengthen the payment system and ensure greater accountability.
Ambade raised serious questions about the roles of field staff and computer operators in financial processes, emphasizing the need to verify the reliability of online payments. The recent spate of irregularities has prompted the department to implement stricter oversight mechanisms.
Social Audits to Ensure Transparency
In a recent circular to withdrawal distribution officers, Ambade directed that all payments related to forest management, construction, and labor work be verified through social audits. These audits will be conducted with the help of collectors, district panchayats, block-level officials, and local panchayats. Reports from these audits must be submitted to the department headquarters for further action.
Strict Guidelines on Passwords and OTP Sharing
Field officers have been explicitly instructed not to share their computer login passwords or OTPs with operators under any circumstances. Ambade emphasized that sharing such credentials poses serious security risks and is strictly against departmental regulations.
Mandatory Rotation of Computer Operators
Citing findings from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Ambade noted that many divisions have had the same computer operators for years, increasing the risk of irregularities. Officers are now required to implement regular rotations of operators to prevent potential manipulation or misuse of financial systems.
Accountability of Divisional Forest Officers
Ambade clarified that in case of any irregularities, Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) will be held directly responsible. Simply blaming operators will no longer be acceptable, ensuring accountability reaches the top levels of the department.
Risks from Temporary Operators
The department head also highlighted the risks associated with temporary computer operators, who often cannot be subjected to departmental action. Ambade stressed the importance of vigilance and continuous monitoring to mitigate potential issues.
CAG Reports Prompt Action
CAG reports have consistently pointed out financial irregularities in forest divisions, often attributing blame to lower-level staff. This time, however, the department has made it clear that responsibility will extend up to senior officers to prevent loopholes and ensure stricter compliance.
