Maharashtra to Introduce AI and Blockchain for ST Caste Certificate Verification; CM Fadnavis Pushes Digital Overhaul
Mumbai, 3rd July 2026 : In a significant move towards technology-driven governance, the Maharashtra government has decided to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technology into the Scheduled Tribe (ST) caste certificate verification process, aiming to make the system more transparent, secure, efficient, and citizen-friendly.
The decision was announced after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis chaired the 52nd meeting of the Maharashtra State Tribal Advisory Council on Thursday. During the meeting, the Chief Minister directed officials to completely digitize the verification process and develop an advanced online verification system using emerging technologies.
Fadnavis said that the integration of AI and blockchain would help eliminate delays, enhance transparency, and strengthen the credibility of caste certificate verification. He instructed officials to ensure that the entire process is conducted online, enabling faster and more reliable verification while reducing manual intervention.
“The Scheduled Tribe caste verification process should become more transparent, secure, reliable, and easier for citizens through the use of Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence,” the Chief Minister said while outlining the government’s vision for modernising the verification mechanism.
According to the directives issued during the meeting, AI-based systems will be used to detect duplicate applications, carry out preliminary scrutiny of submitted documents, and assist officials in verifying records more efficiently. Blockchain technology will be introduced to create tamper-proof digital records, ensuring greater authenticity and preventing manipulation of documents.
The government believes the adoption of these technologies will reduce fraudulent claims, speed up verification timelines, improve administrative efficiency, and provide citizens with a more seamless experience while applying for caste validity certificates.
Apart from digitising the verification process, Fadnavis also directed the Tribal Development, Forest, and Revenue Departments to jointly organise special camps for members of the Pardhi community to facilitate the issuance of caste and other essential certificates. The initiative is aimed at ensuring that eligible beneficiaries receive documentation required to access education, employment opportunities, and government welfare schemes.
The Chief Minister further stressed the need to allocate adequate financial resources to the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) in proportion to Maharashtra’s tribal population. He said the government remains committed to the welfare, empowerment, and inclusive development of tribal communities across the state.
Officials said the proposed digital transformation is expected to significantly improve the efficiency and integrity of Maharashtra’s caste certificate verification system while making government services more accessible through the use of advanced technology. The initiative also aligns with the state’s broader vision of promoting digital governance and delivering faster, transparent, and citizen-centric public services.
