The Government is not considering any proposal to increase the number of working days to six from five a week in administrative offices of the Central Government, according to Shiva Gopal Mishra, Secretary – staff side, National Council, Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM), which is a joint group of various staff unions of Central Government employees.
Mishra stated this on the basis of assurances received from the Cabinet Secretary on Friday. The assurance came through in a meeting of the JCM with Cabinet Secretary on Friday, according to a release.
“After discussion, Cabinet Secretary assured to Secretary, Staff Side National Council - JCM, Shiva Gopal Mishra, that no such proposal is under consideration with the Government at present,” it said.
Mishra also holds the post of General Secretary, All India Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF).
"Five days a week working was introduced, way back in the year 1985 after prolonged deliberations at the National Council(JCM) level. Various aspects, including energy saving in the form of electricity and also Statutory Provision regarding working hours were kept in view,” stated the release.
The Unions also reiterated their view to increase the salaries by merging 50 per cent of Dearness Allowance with the basic pay, Mishra told Business Line.