The Odisha Government has rolled out stringent new rules for biometric attendance across all departments to ensure timely office presence and enhance administrative efficiency.
According to a recent memorandum, all departments must install biometric attendance systems if not already in place and ensure they are fully functional. The recorded biometric data must be linked to the NIC-developed Biometric Attendance System Portal and reviewed fortnightly by a designated officer.
As per the new attendance norms, employees must clock both ‘Office In’ and ‘Office Out’ times using the biometric device. Failure to register the ‘Office Out’ time may be considered a full day’s absence. Staff are expected to report to work on time, and in roster-based offices, the Head of Office will specify exact reporting hours through formal orders.
While minor delays of up to 30 minutes can be excused up to three times a month, any further delays will lead to casual leave deductions — one day of leave for every three additional late arrivals. However, exceptions will be made for employees working on public holidays, extended hours, or with evening assignments, provided prior approval is obtained.
Additionally, staff unable to record attendance due to official tours or field work will not face penalties, if backed by valid orders from competent authorities. Notably, employees serving in the offices of the Governor, Chief Minister, and Ministers are exempt from these rules.
Employees are also expected to maintain a minimum work duration of 7.5 hours daily, barring notified morning business days. The government is also planning to pilot AI-based cameras and RFID-enabled ID cards for attendance tracking, starting with Lok Seva Bhavan and Kharavel Bhavan, with statewide expansion to follow.
The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to punctuality as a cornerstone of good governance, urging all officials—from juniors to senior-most functionaries—to adhere strictly to attendance norms.
