Karnataka to pilot night attendance tracking for doctors via Kartavya app

The Karnataka government has introduced a geofencing-based night-time attendance system through the ‘Kartavya’ mobile app, starting with a pilot for all doctors in taluk hospitals and Primary Health Centres from 1 November 2026. Doctors must mark attendance after 9 pm each day while within the geographical limits of their designated headquarters. Exemptions apply for those on sanctioned leave, on official duty outside headquarters, or with prior permission, who must record reasons in the app. Commissioners and District Health Officers must review monthly reports, and officials found not residing at their headquarters without permission face disciplinary action under civil service rules.

In a separate circular, the government has made it mandatory for contractual and outsourced employees in all departments to register on the Kartavya app by 25 November, with attendance recorded exclusively through the app from 1 December. From 1 January 2027, salaries and outsourcing bills will be cleared only on the basis of app-generated attendance reports. The system follows Upa Lokayukta proceedings that found several employees were not living at their designated headquarters, causing delays. Based on the pilot outcome, the government plans to extend the app to other departments and cadres.