Re-engagement of Retired Employees Allowed Only in Exceptional Cases: J&K Minister
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Agriculture Minister Javed Ahmad Dar on Wednesday clarified that the government has no blanket policy for the re-engagement of retired employees, stating that such extensions are permitted only in rare and exceptional circumstances where specific expertise is crucial.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, the Minister said that no re-engagement has been approved so far. “It is not a blanket order. Only in exceptional cases, where expertise is essential or departmental improvement is required, can an extension be considered. As of now, no such extension has been made,” he said.
His remarks come amid criticism over the alleged re-engagement of retired officials in some departments. Dar asserted that the administration remains committed to institutional strengthening, efficiency and transparency, and that re-engagements will not become a general practice.
The Minister also said that reforms in the agriculture sector are a continuous process rather than a one-year exercise, emphasising the need for modernisation, data-driven planning and consistent policy innovation to strengthen agriculture and allied sectors.
Responding to concerns over losses faced by apple growers, Dar said the transition from traditional orchards to high-density apple plantations is necessary for improved productivity and early returns. However, he acknowledged issues related to the supply of substandard plants in the Valley.
“A committee chaired by the Director Horticulture Kashmir has been constituted to look into the matter. Once the report is submitted, corrective steps will be taken. The government is strictly following Standard Operating Procedures and health inspections as per the norms of the Union Agriculture Ministry,” he added.
