Mon Dec 01 14:28:51 UTC 2025: Summary:
Karnataka will soon implement mandatory digital e-stamping for all documents, both registerable and non-registerable, replacing the existing e-stamp paper system. This move aims to increase convenience for the public, prevent misuse and forgery, and ensure accurate stamp duty payment. The initiative stems from observed misuse of the existing e-stamp paper system, leading to revenue losses for the government. The new system allows 24/7 online access, is tamper-proof, and enables document retrieval through QR codes.
News Article:
Karnataka Goes Fully Digital with Mandatory E-Stamping, Combating Fraud and Boosting Convenience
Bengaluru, December 1, 2025 – In a move to modernize governance and curb revenue leakage, the Karnataka government announced today that it will soon implement mandatory digital e-stamping for all document transactions, both registerable and non-registerable. This replaces the existing e-stamp paper system, which had been in place for over two decades, and is expected to roll out fully in the coming weeks.
The announcement, made by Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, highlights the dual benefits of the new system: increased public convenience and a significant reduction in fraud. “Citizens will be able to obtain stamp papers online, 24/7, from the comfort of their homes,” stated Minister Gowda at a press conference. “Furthermore, the new digital system is designed to be tamper-proof, eliminating the risk of fake stamp papers and misuse.”
The initiative comes in response to the government’s observations of widespread misuse of the current e-stamp paper system, including unauthorized printing and underpayment of applicable duties. Minister Gowda elaborated on the situation, stating, “We have seen instances where individuals were purchasing ₹100 stamp papers for transactions requiring duty payments of several thousands, resulting in substantial losses to the state exchequer.”
The new digital system addresses these issues by implementing a fully online platform and maintaining a secure digital record of all transactions. In the event of a lost document, citizens will be able to retrieve it using a QR code, providing a level of security and access previously unavailable.
The state government anticipates that the transition to mandatory digital e-stamping will streamline processes, enhance transparency, and generate greater revenue. From collecting ₹45.90 crore in revenue using 5.92 lakh certificates, Karnataka state generated ₹2,320 crore in 2024-2025 issuing 3.07 crore certificates. This move to full digitization is a significant step in the government’s ongoing efforts to embrace technology and improve public services.
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