📷 Image Credits: The Hindu
In a recent development, the Centre has issued a stern warning to employees regarding punctuality at work, emphasizing the importance of adhering to office hours. The advisory, aimed at promoting a culture of discipline and accountability, highlights the need for employees to mark their attendance using the Aadhaar Enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) without fail.
The Centre’s directive comes in response to reports of laxity in implementing the AEBAS and instances of employees arriving late to work on a regular basis. The authorities have urged Ministries, organisations, and departments to closely monitor the attendance reports of their employees and take disciplinary action against those consistently violating punctuality norms.
According to sources, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has communicated to Secretaries of Ministries and departments about the importance of enforcing punctuality among employees. The advisory stresses that punctuality and attendance records will be considered when assigning important tasks, trainings, deputations, and transfers.
Furthermore, the Centre has underlined the consequences of habitual late attendance and early departures from office, stating that such actions will be viewed seriously and discouraged. The directive also mentions the provisions for half-a-day’s Casual Leave to be debited for each day of late attendance, with disciplinary action possible for repeat offenders.
In addition to emphasizing punctuality, the advisory highlights the use of face-based authentication applications for faster and more secure attendance tracking. Nodal officers have been instructed to configure personal mobile policies on the attendance portal and integrate geo-coordinates for precise location tracking.
Overall, the Centre’s call for punctuality reflects a broader push towards fostering a work culture rooted in discipline and efficiency. By prioritizing timeliness and accountability, the government aims to enhance productivity and accountability in the workplace, setting a standard for professional conduct across various sectors in India.