The directives by the Chief Secretary regarding the expedited implementation of the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS) mark a crucial step in ensuring timely relief and support to families of deceased Government employees. This scheme, introduced in 2022 to replace the erstwhile SRO-43 of 1994, holds promise for greater transparency and fairness in appointments under compassionate grounds. The CS’s emphasis on creating merit-based appointments while consolidating vacancies across departments is a welcome initiative. By ensuring that all applications received are processed swiftly and merit lists are framed as per existing rules, the administration is demonstrating its commitment to addressing the needs of grieving families in a just and time-bound manner. The RAS scheme, designed to provide financial stability and employment opportunities to the dependents of deceased employees, is a vital component of the social security framework in the UT.
The numbers presented during the review meeting are a clear indication of the scheme’s extensive reach and the pressing need for its efficient implementation. With 1,116 cases registered since its inception-523 in 2022 and 593 in 2024-it’s evident that the demand for assistance is substantial. However, the processing of these cases needs further acceleration as 1,060 have been forwarded to respective departments for action. The challenge now lies in converting these applications into appointments without undue delay. Key measures outlined during the meeting, such as DC’s personally monitoring district-level cases and ensuring prompt issuance of requisite certificates by Tehsildars, are pragmatic and actionable. Similarly, the directive to DDOs to prioritise cases of deceased employees reflects a much-needed sensitivity to the plight of the bereaved families. By integrating these mechanisms, the administration can significantly reduce bureaucratic hurdles and ensure applicants benefit promptly. The move to consolidate vacancies into a common pool and frame a uniform merit list further strengthens the fairness and impartiality of the scheme. It avoids duplication and ensures that every deserving applicant is assessed against a transparent standard. Nonetheless, continuous monitoring and periodic review will be crucial to sustaining the momentum.
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