India, May 25 -- In a move expected to benefit thousands of students and job aspirants, the Maharashtra government has decided to introduce a fully digital and time-bound caste validity certificate system, aimed at reducing long delays and improving transparency in the verification process.

The social justice department has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to develop and implement the new digital mechanism. The project, estimated to cost around Rs.25 crore, is designed on the lines of the passport service system to ensure quicker disposal of applications and online tracking of cases.

Under the proposed digital system, the entire process from submission of applications to scrutiny, status tr...