Department of Posts (DOP) Seeks Feedback on Proposal to Grant Gazetted Status to HSG-I Cadre.
New Delhi, November 1, 2024 – The Department of Posts (DoP), under the Ministry of Communications, has initiated discussions on conferring Gazetted status to the Higher Selection Grade-I (HSG-I) cadre. The proposal, currently under consideration, aims to assess the eligibility and implications of granting this elevated status to HSG-I personnel.
In a circular issued to all Head of Circles, the Department of Posts has requested detailed feedback and data on the current structure, roles, and powers of the HSG-I cadre. This cadre encompasses personnel in various sections, including Post Offices (PO), Railway Mail Service (RMS), and Savings Bank Control Organization (SBCO). The gathered insights will serve as the foundation for the department's review and potential endorsement of Gazetted status.
Key Inputs Requested from Head of Circles
To facilitate a comprehensive evaluation, the Department of Posts has outlined specific areas for which each Head of Circle (HOC) must provide information by November 15, 2024. The following data points are requested:
Sanctioned and Working Strength of HSG-I Personnel: HOCs must provide current data on both the sanctioned (approved) and working (actual) strength of HSG-I personnel across PO, RMS, and SBCO roles. This information will help assess workforce adequacy in HSG-I and its potential alignment with Gazetted status requirements.
Duties and Responsibilities: HOCs are to describe the core functions and operational responsibilities of HSG-I personnel across all sections. Clear insights into these duties are essential for evaluating the suitability of Gazetted status for the cadre.
Administrative and Statutory Powers: The Department has asked for details on the administrative and statutory authorities vested in HSG-I personnel within the PO, RMS, and SBCO sectors. These insights are crucial for understanding the role’s significance and any existing level of autonomy that might support Gazetted designation.
Financial Powers: Each HOC is to report on the financial decision-making powers held by HSG-I staff across different sections. Financial authority is often a key consideration in granting Gazetted status.
Recommendations and Comments: Finally, the Department seeks each HOC’s specific recommendations on whether Gazetted status should be conferred upon HSG-I personnel. This feedback will be crucial for gauging support at the organizational level.
Next Steps and Deadline
The Department of Posts has requested that all Heads of Circle submit the above information by November 15, 2024. This timeframe underscores the urgency of the proposal and the department's commitment to advancing the status and recognition of eligible personnel in a timely manner.
This potential status change could bring additional responsibilities, autonomy, and recognition to HSG-I staff, aligning with the Department's efforts to bolster efficiency and motivation within its workforce. By considering the conferral of Gazetted status, the Department of Posts aims to reflect the significant roles that HSG-I personnel play in its operations.
