The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently concluded a comprehensive three-day capacity-building program for finance officers of the Mizoram government. Held from December 15 to 17, the workshop aimed at strengthening professional expertise in public financial management and modern government banking procedures.
Workshop Structure and Core Focus Areas
The intensive program was strategically conducted in two distinct phases across two RBI centers. The first leg took place at the Department of Government Banking & Accounts (DGBA) in Mumbai, while the second phase was held at the Central Accounts Section (CAS) in Nagpur.
The curriculum was meticulously designed to cover critical aspects of government finance. Key topics included updated government accounting procedures, the adoption of digital payment ecosystems, effective cash management strategies, and the nuances of public debt management.
Deep Dive into Systems and Frameworks in Mumbai
During the Mumbai segment, officers were immersed in the RBI's pivotal role as the banker to both central and state governments. A significant portion was dedicated to the workings of the e-Kuber system, which is the core platform for processing all electronic government payments and receipts.
Participants also received detailed training on the newly introduced SNA SPARSH framework. This system is crucial for the streamlined release of funds under centrally sponsored schemes. Additionally, the operational mechanics of open market borrowings were explained. These modules are collectively expected to drive greater efficiency, transparency, and accuracy in the state's financial operations.
Hands-On Learning in Nagpur on Transactions and Accounts
The Nagpur phase shifted focus to the back-end processes that sustain government finance. It covered the intricate processing of inter-government transactions and the meticulous maintenance of accounts for both the centre and the state.
Officials were also trained on managing the state's investments in the bond market and the utilization of specialized funds like the consolidated sinking fund and the guarantee redemption fund for prudent fiscal management. Each technical presentation was followed by interactive Q&A sessions, allowing for practical problem-solving.
Mizoram's Progress and Future Collaboration
RBI officials commended the Mizoram government's fiscal discipline, noting that the state has not resorted to overdrafts in recent times and stands out among smaller states for its sound cash management practices. They also acknowledged the significant strides made by Mizoram in implementing e-payments via its State Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS), while suggesting a need to further strengthen the e-receipts infrastructure.
The delegation from Mizoram, led by Deputy Secretary Rosiamliana of the finance department, highlighted a practical challenge: the need to expedite the opening of RBI accounts to fully implement the SNA SPARSH framework. In response, senior RBI officials, including Chief General Manager Sivakumar Bose, assured continued cooperation and support to the state in overcoming operational hurdles related to new systems.
This workshop marks a proactive step by the RBI to build robust financial governance at the state level, equipping Mizoram's officers with the tools needed for a more digital and accountable fiscal future.
