Kolkata: Proposals for extension of retiring officials/employees could not be an established norm at govt offices, stated a circular from the chief secretary Manoj Agarwal on Wednesday, directing all departments to initiate the process of fresh selection of manpower supply agencies and identify replacements for retiring employees at least three months ahead of their last days in office.Re-employment of retired govt servants would be permitted only in exceptional circumstances, lack of alternatives for replacement and in cases of public interest, the circular mentioned.The move is aimed at improving administrative efficiency, transparency and financial discipline. The directives are also applicable to local bodies, state public sector undertakings (PSUs), statutory bodies and other state-run organisations.“Several departments and offices were repeatedly seeking approvals for extending manpower supply contracts and re-engaging retired officials. In some cases, authorities continued such engagements without taking approval from the finance department,” a senior official said. “Such practices undermine equal opportunities for public employment, restrict promotions for current employees and compromise financial discipline.”Heads of departments have been told to hold monthly reviews of impending vacancies and share the details with the finance, personnel and administrative reforms departments and the cadre controlling authorities concerned.
