Addressing Compassionate Engagement Cases of GDS: A Call for Efficient Disposal
In a recent communication dated December 26, 2024, the Ministry of Communications, Department of Posts, highlighted concerns over the slow disposal of compassionate engagement cases concerning Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS) across various circles in India. This issue, as reported by GDS unions, reveals significant delays in the approval process for cases cleared by the Circle Committee on Engagement (CCE).
Key Observations
Upon scrutiny of Management Information System (MIS) data:
Pendency in Circles: In 15 circles, excluding specific states like Kerala, Bihar, A.P, H.P, Maharashtra, Telangana, Delhi, and J&K, over 40% of approved cases await approval by the Divisional Postal Service (DPS). Notably, some circles such as Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Jharkhand, West Bengal, North East, and Punjab have yet to approve a single case since the launch of the Online GDS Compassionate Engagement Portal.
Directive for Action: The Ministry directed Heads of Circles (HOCs) to ensure prompt action by DPSs to clear backlog cases. Emphasizing the need for proactive monitoring, it stressed the availability of MIS at Circle/Regional levels to facilitate efficient oversight and urged against unnecessary Directorate intervention in welfare matters concerning GDS families.
Call to Action
The Ministry's directive underscores the urgency of addressing delays in compassionate engagement cases:
Responsibility of HOCs: HOCs are tasked with overseeing DPSs to expedite approvals and streamline the compassionate engagement process.
Monitoring Mechanism: Utilization of MIS tools at local levels ensures transparency and accountability in processing cases, thereby minimizing bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Communication Channels: Contact details provided by Assistant Director General Ravi Pahwa (Tel. No. 011-23096629, Email: adggds426@gmail.com) serve as avenues for further inquiries and updates on compassionate engagement initiatives.
Conclusion
Efficient management of compassionate engagement cases is crucial in upholding the welfare of GDS families. By adhering to these directives, Circles can ensure timely support to those affected, fulfilling the Ministry's commitment to compassionate governance in postal services.
For further details, refer to the official communication dated December 26, 2024, signed by Ravi Pahwa, Assistant Director General (GDS/PCC/PAP), Ministry of Communications, Department of Posts.
