New Delhi, July 5 (IANS) Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh, on Sunday highlighted the Central government’s employee-centric initiatives, particularly the decision to redeploy nearly 65,000 erstwhile Ordnance Factory employees into regular government service, following the restructuring of the Ordnance Factory Board.

Addressing a delegation representing Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) and affiliated employees’ organisations from across the country, the minister said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government remains committed to a consultative and responsive approach in addressing issues concerning government employees and pensioners. He said every genuine representation receives due consideration through the appropriate Ministries and Departments and that suggestions aimed at improving governance, simplifying procedures and enhancing administrative efficiency are always welcome.

The minister further stated that PM Modi has always prioritised making governance more transparent, efficient and citizen-centric through progressive administrative reforms. He said continued dialogue with employee organisations plays an important role in identifying practical issues and evolving appropriate policy responses in the larger public interest.

Dr Singh appreciated the constructive role played by employee organisations in bringing service-related issues before the government through institutional dialogue. He said regular interaction with stakeholders helps strengthen governance and facilitates timely resolution of issues concerning government employees and pensioners.

The delegation thanked the minister, as a member of the Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM), for supporting the extension of deemed deputation of erstwhile Ordnance Factory employees till the date of retirement. Representatives said the subsequent decision to redeploy these employees into regular government service has provided long-term service security to nearly 65,000 employees and addressed one of the most significant concerns arising from the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board.

The representatives also discussed a number of service-related issues requiring further consideration. These included extending the benefit of the Old Pension Scheme to compassionate appointment cases, career progression, cadre-related matters and wider stakeholder consultations on issues concerning government employees.

The delegation appreciated the continued engagement with recognised employee organisations during deliberations on matters relating to personnel administration and future policy reforms. It suggested that administrative processes may continue to be simplified to reduce avoidable litigation and ensure timely resolution of service-related matters affecting employees.

–IANS

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