A major relief has arrived for government employees across Bihar as the state administration ramps up efforts to clear all pending salary dues ahead of the upcoming Diwali and Chhath Mahaparv festivals. Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit has issued strict directives to all government departments, mandating that employees receive their overdue payments before the festivities begin. He made it explicitly clear that no worker should face any delay in receiving their salary during the festive season, prompting departments to take immediate and necessary administrative actions to meet the deadline.
High-Level Review Meeting Addresses Salary Delays
During a high-level virtual review meeting held on Friday with district magistrates and superintendents of police from all districts, Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit expressed strong concern over ongoing delays in salary disbursement across several key sectors, including education, health, rural development, home, and revenue and land reforms departments. He instructed all drawing and disbursing officers and district authorities to expedite the clearance of pending payments without any further administrative sluggishness. To ensure all necessary paperwork and formalities are wrapped up on time, departments have been advised to keep their offices open even on Saturday if the workload demands it.
Emphasis on Reforming Administrative Work Culture
In addition to financial clearances, Chief Secretary Amrit laid heavy emphasis on the urgent need to improve the overall administrative work culture within government machinery. He pointed out that making the system more efficient and smooth-running might require extra effort and extended working hours from officials when necessary. Streamlining internal processes ensures that routine operations do not stall and that the workforce remains motivated and supported by timely remuneration during high-expense festive periods.
Statewide Awareness Campaign Announced for Chhath Mahaparv
Alongside financial measures, the state government has resolved to roll out a comprehensive public awareness campaign throughout Bihar during the Chhath Mahaparv celebrations. The campaign is scheduled to run from November 10 to November 16. It will utilize traditional folk songs, promotional jingles, and decorative welcome arches to showcase the immense grandeur and cultural significance of the festival to residents and visitors alike.
Traditional Songs and Jingles at Transit Hubs
As part of the outreach initiative, railway stations, bus terminals, airports, and the Patna Metro network across the state will continuously broadcast traditional Chhath folk songs and promotional audio jingles. Informative posters highlighting various aspects of the Mahaparv will also be prominently displayed at these transit locations. Within the Secretariat offices, a central public address system will play Chhath songs daily between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, creating an immersive festive atmosphere for government personnel.
Grand Welcome Arches at State Entry Points
To warmly greet travelers and returning natives, the administration will construct eye-catching Chhath welcome arches at entry points across all 18 border districts, as well as along major entry corridors in other districts. These installations aim to celebrate the festival on a grand scale, ensuring that anyone entering the state is immediately enveloped in the traditional warmth and festive spirit of Bihar.
