Odisha Government makes biometric attendance mandatory to enforce punctuality in offices

Bhubaneswar, June 12: In a major step to strengthen administrative discipline, the Odisha government on Thursday issued a fresh directive mandating strict adherence to office timings for all state government employees—from junior staff to senior officials.

The order, issued by the General Administration & Public Grievance Department, aims to establish punctuality as a pillar of good governance. All departments have been instructed to install biometric attendance systems, if not already in place, and ensure their seamless operation. These systems will be integrated with the Biometric Attendance System Portal developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), with data to be monitored fortnightly by designated officers.

As per the directive, all employees must record both 'Office In' and 'Office Out' times using biometric devices. Failure to log “Office Out” may be considered unauthorised absence.

Employees are expected to report by the prescribed time. A delay of up to 30 minutes, permitted on three days a month, is condonable. Beyond that, every three days of late arrival will result in one day’s Casual Leave deduction.

Staff working extended hours or on holidays for official duties may be exempted from penalties with proper approval. Employees must be present for a minimum of 7.5 hours daily, except on notified morning schedules.