Retired employees’ re-engagement allowed only in exceptional cases: J&K Minister amid row

Srinagar : Stating that government has no blanket policy for the re-engagement of retired employees, Jammu and Kashmir Agriculture Minister Javed Ahmad Dar on Wednesday said that such extensions are granted only in exceptional cases where specific expertise is essential.

Speaking with reporters in Srinagar, the Minister, per news agency, said that as of now no such extension has been given.

The Minister’s remark comes amid growing criticism over the alleged re-engagement of retired officials in certain departments.

“It is not a blanket order. Only in exceptional cases where expertise is essential or departmental improvement is needed can an extension be given. As of now, no such extension has been made,” he said.

He maintained that the administration is focused on institutional strengthening, efficiency and transparency, and that re-engagements will not be permitted as a general practice.

Dar also said that agriculture is a continuous process of reforms and not a one-year assessment, stressing modernisation, data-driven planning and consistent policy innovation to strengthen allied sectors.

Responding to a question on losses faced by apple growers, Dar said the shift from traditional orchards to high-density apple plantations was essential for better yields and early returns, though he acknowledged issues related to substandard plants being brought into the Valley.

“A committee chaired by the Director Horticulture Kashmir has been formed to investigate the issue. Once the report is received, corrective measures will be taken. The government is following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and health inspections as per Union Agriculture Ministry norms,” he said—(KNO)