A suggestion from Dr. Sumantra Pal, Economic Advisor to the Finance Ministry of the Central Government, has become the center of discussion among employees. This advice has surprised and upset employees of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSUs).
In fact, on September 17th, the Economic Advisor directed the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) to ban the practice of giving gifts on Diwali and other festivals in Central Public Sector Enterprises. Gifts increase government expenditure. This step is necessary to ensure equitable use of public resources in the economy.
In a letter to the Chief Executive of the Department of Public Enterprises, the Economic Advisor stated, “It has been observed that Central Public Sector Enterprises have a practice of giving gifts on Diwali and other festivals. To ensure equitable use of public resources in the economy, this practice should be stopped.” Consequently, all Central Public Sector Enterprises have been requested to discontinue this practice. The exchange of gifts on any festival should be prohibited. The Economic Advisor has urged that these guidelines be ensured.
Dr. Manjit Singh Patel, Chairman of the National Mission for Old Pension Scheme India, says that this directive from the Finance Ministry is incorrect. What’s wrong if employees working in central public sector enterprises receive a gift on Diwali or other festivals? It’s a small token, but it holds great value. The employee feels recognized for their work. This small gift encourages them to work with double the enthusiasm. The government has erred by issuing such an order. This is a step that demoralizes employees.
The DPE, a nodal department under the Ministry of Finance, formulates policies and guidelines relating to Central Public Sector Enterprises, evaluates their performance, and lays down policy guidelines on their performance, autonomy, and personnel management. The 52nd Report of the Estimates Committee of the Third Lok Sabha (1962-67) highlighted the need for a centralized coordinating body to continuously evaluate the performance of public enterprises. Consequently, the Government of India established the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) in 1965 and placed it under the Ministry of Finance.
Following the reorganization of central government ministries and departments in September 1985, the BPE became a part of the Ministry of Industry. Further reforms took place in May 1990, elevating the BPE to a full-fledged department known as the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE). The DPE’s mission is to formulate policies to enhance the competitiveness and social impact of public sector enterprises, promote transparency, and foster responsible governance. Furthermore, it is to be a driving force in fostering excellence, sustainability, and innovation in public sector enterprises, which significantly contribute to the nation’s economic growth and development.
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