The Kerala cabinet has approved raising the pension age for NORKA ROOTS employees from 58 to 60 years. This decision aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance employee welfare and address concerns related to extending careers within the organisation.
NORKA ROOTS employees work for the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA) ROOTS, the field agency of the Kerala government’s Department of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs. This organisation was established to cater to the welfare and needs of Keralites residing outside India, both in other states and abroad. It serves as a bridge between the government and the global Malayali community, addressing their concerns and offering various support services.
In similar lines, The Kerala cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, decided against raising the retirement age for government employees to 60, keeping it at 56. This move rejected a key recommendation by the Fourth Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC).
The decision came after a meeting held on Wednesday, 11 December, 2024 and was announced following the meeting on the same day. The primary aim of this was to align with public opinion and preserve job opportunities for younger generations.
To streamline recruitment, the government has also made it mandatory for all departments to report vacancies annually to the Public Service Commission (PSC). Once reported, vacancies cannot be cancelled. Promotions to certain posts will now require specific skills, with eligibility tests ensuring candidates meet qualifications.
Furthermore, annual health check-ups for all employees will be introduced as a preventive initiative. Disciplinary proceedings must conclude at least one month before an employee’s retirement to ensure smoother administrative processes.
