Shimla, April 08: In a landmark decision that will bring relief to thousands of workers across Himachal Pradesh, the state government has initiated the process to regularize the services of contract and daily wage employees. This move, which has been long awaited by many, is expected to provide job security and stability for a large number of employees who have been working under temporary conditions for years.
According to the government’s official notification, the regularization process will begin in the financial year 2025-26, and it will be implemented based on prescribed criteria for eligible employees. The decision covers employees in all state government departments, and it promises to significantly impact workers who have been waiting for a permanent status in their roles.
Eligibility for Regularization For contract employees, the condition for regularization is the completion of at least two years of continuous service by March 31, 2025. Regularization will be done based on available vacancies and seniority, with due regard to the rules of appointment. A screening committee will be set up in each department to assess the eligibility of these employees. The process will also include medical examinations and character verification to ensure the suitability of employees for permanent positions.
Daily Wage Earners to Benefit Too In another crucial step, the state government has announced that daily wage earners and casual workers who have worked at least 240 days per year for four consecutive years will also be eligible for regularization. This applies to those who have served up to March 31, 2025. Special exemptions will be provided for workers in tribal areas.
Key Details on Regularization Process
No Creation of New Posts: The government has clarified that no new positions will be created for regularization. Existing posts will be abolished and replaced by permanent appointments.
Pay Scale Considerations: Employees who have served less than four years will be regularized at the lower pay scale, even if they have been working in higher pay scales. They will only be eligible for the higher pay scale after completing four years of service.
Relaxations in Qualifications and Age Limits: While the minimum educational qualifications will be mandatory, the competent authority can provide relaxations in special cases. Employees who have exceeded the maximum age limit but were within the prescribed age at the time of appointment will also be eligible for regularization.
Seniority and Equivalency: Regular employees’ seniority will be based on their service experience and tenure. If there are no available vacancies in certain departments, the process can be extended to equivalent posts at the same pay scale.
Implementation and Oversight The Personnel Department has issued instructions to all department heads and administrative secretaries to ensure timely implementation of this decision. This decision marks a historic step in providing long-awaited job security for the state’s contract and daily wage employees.
With these developments, the Sukhu government has made a significant contribution to the welfare and stability of thousands of workers in Himachal Pradesh, enhancing their job security and future prospects.
