Regarding the facial attendance system for Branch Postmasters (BPMs) using DARPAN devices.

It’s an official communication from the Department of Posts (Government of India, GDS Section) dated 25th August 2025 regarding the facial attendance system for Branch Postmasters (BPMs) using DARPAN devices.

Key Points from the Circular:

Objective: To implement an Aadhaar-enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) using facial recognition for BPMs across all Branch Post Offices.

Pilot Success: A pilot was conducted in 1,151 Branch Offices across 4 Divisions in Madhya Pradesh & Maharashtra (01.06.2025 – 30.06.2025) with positive results.

Rollout Plan:

Phase I: 13.10.2025 – 15% Divisions in MP & MH + 2 Divisions in each other Circle.

Phase II: 24.10.2025 – 30% Divisions in all Circles.

Phase III: 04.11.2025 – 60% Divisions.

Phase IV: 11.11.2025 – 100% Divisions.

Preparatory Activities by Circles:

1. Obtain and activate subdomain at attendance portal.

2. Prepare & verify Master Data of BOs and GDS in prescribed Excel template.

3. Add BO details including geo-fencing (lat-long) in portal.

4. Register and activate GDS at the portal.

5. Install AEBAS app + Aadhaar FaceRD app in DARPAN device and test 3 days before rollout.

Responsibility & Coordination:

Each Circle to nominate Master Trainer (Postal Assistant or above) and SPOC (AD/APMG level).

DPS (HQ) to oversee implementation.

IPPB will push app updates to devices.

NIC & CEPT will provide tech support and MIS integration.

Support Materials:

User manuals, FAQs, and process flow docs available on DoP Attendance Portal (indiapost.attendance.gov.in).

📌 In short: From October 2025, all BPMs across India will have to mark attendance using facial recognition via DARPAN devices in a phased rollout, after a successful pilot.