In a significant move to address the staffing crisis within Indian Railways, the railway department has announced plans to re-employ nearly 25,000 retired employees. This decision comes as the organization grapples with a growing shortage of personnel, which has led to increased work pressure on current staff and, in some cases, safety concerns resulting in accidents. According to reports from News 18, the re-hiring initiative will focus solely on eligible former employees. To qualify, individuals must be under the age of 65 at the time of re-employment and must not have faced any disciplinary actions in the five years preceding their retirement.
This strategic move aims to quickly fill various positions across the railway system, from truckman to superintendent roles, and alleviate the current workload on active employees. The responsibility for overseeing this recruitment process will rest with the Zone Heads, ensuring that the selection is efficient and effective. The decision to bring back retired employees is a response to the urgent need for manpower, as operational demands have surged in recent weeks.
Railway officials have clarified that those who are re-employed will receive their last drawn salary at the time of retirement, along with travel expenses and other allowances. However, it is important to note that for employees currently receiving a pension, the pension amount will be deducted from their salary, with the remainder paid out as their salary. Additionally, there will be no salary increases for these re-hired positions, which will be temporary contracts lasting between two to five years.
This initiative not only seeks to bolster the workforce but also highlights the railway department's commitment to ensuring safe and efficient operations across the network. As the department moves forward with this recruitment plan, many retired employees are likely to welcome the opportunity to contribute once again to a vital sector of the country’s infrastructure.
