Women power: SHG members take over tax collection in Davanagere | Hubballi News

Davanagere: The Davanagere City Corporation (DCC) has launched an innovative programme employing women from self-help groups (SHGs) for door-to-door collection of property tax and water charges. Following state govt guidelines under ‘Day-NULM’, the corporation selected qualified members from women’s empowerment groups. Through a systematic selection process, 12 women were appointed.DCC officials reported that 77 women from SHGs had applied for these positions. After evaluating their communication skills and digital literacy, 25 candidates were shortlisted. Following training in tax collection protocols, 12 women commenced their duties, earning a 5% commission on their collection.These women must have digital literacy and above 7th class pass qualification, but all 12 women completed class 10 or above in Davanagere.The appointed women were assigned specific wards and provided with Point of Sale (POS) devices. These 12 women collectively gathered over Rs 1 crore in tax revenue within DCC limits—Rs 50 lakh in May and Rs 50 lakh in June. July calculations remain pending.The corporation strictly accepts UPI-based payments, disallowing cash transactions. The SHG members have effectively resolved the shortage of tax collectors. The new system has proven beneficial for residents through door-to-door tax collection. It helps property owners avoid late payment penalties. However, the local authority needs to increase public awareness, as some residents remain sceptical of these collectors.“When a woman with a device visited, we were unaware of the corporation’s new collection system. We declined, preferring to pay at the corporation office. Better public awareness will help,” shared Kotresh M, from SS Layout.Vijayalakshmi Hallikeri from Eshwari Women’s Self-Help Group shared that initially, residents were sceptical when they visited for collection. They presented their corporation-issued ID cards and verified using POS devices. Through persuasion, they collect taxes. “I collected Rs 5.5 lakh in May alone,” she added.Among Karnataka’s 315 urban local bodies, including 10 municipal corporations and 61 city councils, several organisations face challenges in water and property tax collection. In June 2024, the state cabinet approved ‘Stree Shakti’ participation in tax collection, including outstanding amounts.QuotesResidents of Davanagere are showing a positive response during door-to-door tax collection drives, as it eliminates their need to visit the corporation office. Additionally, the digital payment system simplified the collection process – Geeta Patil, Sri Durgadevi Mahaila Nirantra Ulitaya Group—This initiative creates employment opportunities for women. Citizens should avoid unnecessary fines. We are monitoring tax collection progress – Renuka, Commissioner, Davanagere City Corporation