Addendum to the Gramin Dak Sevaks (Compassionate Engagement) Scheme, 2023
Addendum to the Gramin Dak Sevaks (Compassionate Engagement) Scheme, 2023
Download Addendum to the Gramin Dak Sevaks (Compassionate Engagement) Scheme, 2023 in PDF
The Government of India, through the Ministry of Communications, Department of Posts, has issued an addendum (No. 19-19/2024-GDS) to the Gramin Dak Sevaks (Compassionate Engagement) Scheme, 2023. This directive, dated February 25, 2025, introduces key modifications aimed at refining the provisions for compassionate engagement, ensuring that families of deceased or incapacitated employees receive necessary support.
Revised Objective Clause
The primary goal of the scheme remains to provide compassionate engagement to a dependent family member of a deceased or medically incapacitated Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) or departmental employee. This engagement is intended to mitigate financial distress and support the family in overcoming emergency situations.
Under the revised objective, compassionate engagement may be granted in the following cases:
Deceased or Missing Employees:
If a GDS or departmental employee passes away while in service or has been missing for more than two years, a dependent family member may seek engagement under the scheme.
Medical Incapacitation:
If a GDS or departmental employee is compelled to leave service permanently due to a contagious disease or a physical/mental infirmity that renders them unfit for duty.
The GDS must be discharged on medical grounds before the age of 62 years to be eligible.
Key Provisions of the Scheme
Compassionate engagement is not an automatic right and is subject to conditions such as vacancy availability and compliance with scheme regulations.
Only one eligible dependent per deceased or incapacitated employee will be granted engagement as a GDS.
Departmental Employees’ Dependents:
An eligible dependent may apply for compassionate engagement both under departmental vacancies and GDS vacancies.
If selected for both, the candidate must choose one and permanently resign from the other post.
New Clause 14-A: Medical Discharge Cases
An important amendment, Clause 14-A, has been added to address cases where a GDS is permanently discharged due to contagious diseases or bodily/mental infirmities. These individuals will now be considered under the Compassionate Engagement Scheme, provided they meet the following conditions:
The discharge occurs before the age of 62.
Other conditions under OM No. 19-19/2024-GDS (as revised) are met.
Implementation and Circulation
The directive has been circulated to all Chief Postmasters General, with instructions to disseminate it among concerned officials and employees. Additionally, copies have been shared with senior officials, including:
Secretary (Posts)
Director General, Postal Services
Members of various postal committees and departments
Recognized federations, unions, and associations of the Department of Posts
Postal Training Centers
This addendum strengthens the framework for compassionate engagement, ensuring that families of deceased or incapacitated employees receive essential financial and employment support during difficult times. The Department of Posts continues its commitment to the welfare of GDS and departmental employees, reinforcing policies that uphold both efficiency and empathy.
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