Mon Oct 13 15:18:59 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Local bodies in the region will now allocate 2.5% of each property tax transaction to the Information Kerala Mission (IKM). This decision aims to bolster IKM’s digitisation efforts of local governance, particularly supporting the KSMART platform. The initiative follows IKM’s appeal for increased funding due to the success of the KSMART platform in boosting property tax collection. A government-appointed committee reviewed the proposal and recommended the allocation, which has now been approved.

**News Article:**

**Kerala Local Bodies to Fund Digitisation with Property Tax Levy**

**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, October 13, 2025** – In a move to accelerate the digitisation of local governance, local bodies throughout the region will now transfer 2.5% of every property tax transaction to the Information Kerala Mission (IKM). An order formalizing the change was issued last week, confirming a significant boost to the IKM’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives.

The decision comes after the IKM, responsible for the KSMART platform, which provides digital services across local bodies, requested additional funding to support its continued operations and expansion. The IKM argued that the implementation of KSMART has significantly improved property tax collection, justifying the need for a dedicated funding stream.

“The existing funding allocations were insufficient to support the increasing demand for digital services,” stated a source within the IKM. “The KSMART platform has proven its value, and this new funding model will ensure its continued success and further enhancements to local governance.”

A government committee was established to evaluate the IKM’s proposal. The committee ultimately recommended the 2.5% allocation, recognizing the importance of digitisation efforts. The government subsequently approved the recommendation, paving the way for the IKM to implement the necessary software changes for automated deductions.

The move is expected to ensure the long-term sustainability of the KSMART platform and contribute to a more efficient and transparent local governance system for citizens. The IKM will now focus on implementing the changes to facilitate the auto-debiting process from the software, securing a consistent income for the digitization process.

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