Overview of Certificates and the RTPS Act in Bihar

The Government of Bihar, under the **Right to Public Services (RTPS) Act, 2011**, aims to provide various public services, including the issuance of Caste, Address (Domicile), and Income Certificates, within a stipulated timeframe. This initiative promotes transparency and efficiency in service delivery.

• Caste Certificate : Essential for individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) to avail reservations and benefits in education, employment, and government schemes.
• Address/Domicile Certificate : Proves that a person is a permanent resident of Bihar. Required for state government jobs, educational admissions under state quotas, and various state-specific schemes.
• Income Certificate : Certifies the annual income of an individual or family. Crucial for scholarships, fee concessions, admission to economically weaker sections (EWS) quotas, and availing benefits under income-based schemes.

These certificates are generally issued at different administrative levels: Block , Sub-Division , and District levels, depending on the requirement and the applicant's status.

How to Check Application Status on ServicePlus Bihar (RTPS Portal)

The primary portal for checking the status of Caste, Address, and Income Certificates in Bihar is the **ServicePlus Bihar** portal, which is part of the broader **e-District Bihar** initiative.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Status:

1. Visit the Official ServicePlus Bihar Portal:
   • Go to https://serviceonline.bihar.gov.in/
2. Navigate to "Track Application Status":
   • On the homepage, look for the "Citizen Section" usually located on the right-hand side.
   • Under this section, click on the "Track Application Status" link.
3. Choose Tracking Option:
   • A new page will appear, providing two options to track your application:
     • Through Application Reference Number : This is the most common and recommended method. You should have received an application reference number (e.g., BICCO/2025/XXXXX for Caste Certificate, BIHAR/2025/XXXXX for Domicile/Income) when you applied.
     • Through OTP/Application Details : If you do not have the reference number readily available, you can use this option. You will need your mobile number/email ID (used during application) and other application details.
4. Enter Details and Submit:
   • If tracking by Application Reference Number:
     • Enter your **Application Reference Number**.
     • Select the **Application Submission Date** OR **Application Delivery Date**.
     • Enter the Word Verification (Captcha Code) shown on the screen.
     • Click "Submit" .
   • If tracking by OTP/Application Details:
     • Select your service (Caste, Income, or Domicile Certificate).
     • Enter the applicant's name and other details as prompted.
     • Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
     • Enter the Captcha Code.
     • Click "Submit".
5. View Status:
   • The status of your application will be displayed on the screen. It will show whether the application is "Under Process," "Accepted," "Rejected," or "Certificate Issued."
   • If the certificate is "Issued," you will typically see an option to download it.

Downloading Your Certificate

Once your certificate application is approved and the status shows "Certificate Issued," you can download the digitally signed certificate from the ServicePlus Bihar portal.

Steps to Download:

1. Visit the Official ServicePlus Bihar Portal: https://serviceonline.bihar.gov.in/
2. Navigate to "Download Certificate":
   • On the homepage, under the "Citizen Section," click on the "Download Certificate" link.
3. Enter Details:
   • Select "RTPS" (or "Others" if your application falls under that category, though most are RTPS).
   • Enter your **Application Ref. Number** (e.g., BICCO/2025/XXXXX).
   • Enter the **Applicant Name (in English)** exactly as it was entered in the application.
   • Enter the Word Verification (Captcha Code).
4. Download:
   • Click on the "Download Certificate" button. Your digitally signed certificate will be downloaded, which you can then print.

The certificate will also often be sent to your registered email ID and a download link to your registered mobile number via SMS. It might also be available in your DigiLocker account if linked.

Important Points to Remember

• Application Reference Number: This is the most crucial piece of information for tracking. Keep it safe after applying.
• Correct Details: Ensure that the application reference number and applicant's name (for download) are entered exactly as they appear in your application.
• Processing Time: Each certificate type (Caste, Income, Address) has a stipulated processing time under the RTPS Act, usually between 10-21 working days at the Block level. Allow for this period before checking repeatedly.
• SMS/Email Notifications: The system sends automated updates via SMS and email regarding your application status. Ensure your registered mobile number and email ID are active.
• Levels of Issuance:
  • Block Level : For basic/general use, applied at the Circle Officer (CO) level.
  • Sub-Divisional Level : For more specific purposes, applied at the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) level.
  • District Level : For highest level of authority, applied at the District Magistrate (DM) level.
  Ensure you apply for the certificate at the correct level as per your requirement.
• Required Documents: When applying (before checking status), ensure you have all necessary documents as per the specific certificate's requirements (e.g., Aadhaar, photo, self-declaration, income proof, residence proof, caste proof, etc.).
• Helpline: If you face persistent issues or cannot track your application, contact the RTPS Bihar helpline (if available on the portal) or visit the nearest RTPS Counter at your Block/Sub-Divisional office.