SRINAGAR, Oct 30: Javed Ahmad Rana, the Minister for the Jal Shakti Department, confirmed today that the government is actively considering a policy for the regularization of daily-wagers. This announcement came during a session in the Legislative Assembly, where he responded to a question from Legislator Dr. Sajjad Shafi.
The Minister highlighted the issue of staff shortage in the department, primarily due to the retirement of numerous field employees. This shortage has raised concerns over the department’s ability to maintain essential water supply services.
Rana provided specific figures to illustrate the staffing situation. Currently, the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Sub-Division Uri has 125 Assistant Linemen available, whereas only eight lineman positions remain vacant. This discrepancy showcases the pressing need for more personnel to ensure uninterrupted services to the citizens.
Despite the shortages, the Minister assured the public that interim arrangements have been made to guarantee a reliable water supply. The department has employed the internal deployment of existing manpower, which includes both regular employees and daily-wagers, to manage the operation and maintenance of Water Supply Schemes (WSS).
Rana emphasized that these temporary measures would remain in place until the government fills the vacant positions through formal recruitment, promotion, or redeployment in accordance with departmental norms. “We are committed to maintaining consistent and effective water supply services for our people,” he stated during the assembly proceedings.
This potential policy for regularizing daily-wagers could positively impact many workers in the Jal Shakti Department, offering them long-term job security. The government aims to ensure that as it addresses current staffing challenges, it simultaneously boosts the morale of its workforce.
The daily-wager regularization policy under consideration aligns with broader efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir government to stabilize employment in public services. As discussions continue, stakeholders and workers alike remain hopeful for a resolution that assures job security for many who have served in various capacities throughout the department over the years.
