BONANZA OUGHT TO IMPROVE GOVT. EFFICIENCY : ASSOCHAM

Welcoming recommendations of 6th Pay Commission which effected substantial salaries hike for over 4.5 million central government employees, The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) hoped that its reflection would be visible in their efficiency and productivity from fiscal 2008-09 itself.

In a statement issued here, the ASSOCHAM President, Mr. Venugopal N. Dhoot also welcomed 40% increase in central government employee’s pension and their family, describing the move in right direction, especially at times when prices of commodities are rising sharply.

Mr. Dhoot did not agree with apprehensions that the pay hike would fuel inflation and increase revenue deficit, arguing that increased buoyancy in tax collections direct and indirect as a result of higher tax compliance rates would take care of these factors.

In any case in future, the central government is going to witness substantial hike in its revenue collections, benefits of which ought to be given to its employees and there should be no grudge against such pay commission’s recommendations. He, however, hoped that central government employee’s would inspire themselves to be more accountable, much more productive, efficient and responsive while serving government as the exchequer is going to shed away a whopping amount of Rs.12,561 crore in 2008-09 itself on account of higher package