Context: 

In the recently concluded session of the Haryana Assembly, the Opposition raised concerns about the uses of PPP.

Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP):

• PPP is a flagship scheme of the Haryana government introduced in 2020 and implemented in September 2021.
• It issues a unique eight-digit identity number to each family as a single unit.
• Families in Haryana must enroll in PPP to access government services and social security schemes.
• Data Collection:
  • PPP ID can be obtained through Common Service Centers, SARAL Kendras, or registered PPP operators.
  • Data is collected based on self-declarations by adult members of the family.
  • PPP collects extensive data, including family members’ name
• Applications: Linked to the PPP are various public welfare schemes, including subsidies, pensions, educational admissions, government recruitment, certificates, compensation, and more.

Opposition’s Concerns:

• Data Collection Errors: Opposition members have raised concerns about glitches in data collection under the PPP. These errors have resulted in people being denied government subsidies and benefits.
• Mandatory Aadhaar Requirement: A 2017 Supreme Court judgment declared Aadhaar non-mandatory, and the requirement violates the right to privacy.
• Caste Information Requirement: The PPP application requests information about caste. Critics argue that caste details are irrelevant for social security benefits funded by the Consolidated Fund of the State.
• Privacy and Personal Data: Concerns have been raised about the collection of extensive personal details, including PAN Card, bank account numbers, and property information.

News Source: The Indian Express