New working hours introduced in Bihar

Patna, Jan 2(UNI) Revised working hours came into force in government offices of Bihar from today simultaneously with the introduction of a five-day week.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar led the state government officers and employees in adopting the new time table of 0930-1800 hrs.

Mr Kumar held a meeting with senior officers to discuss the ways of implementing the recommendations of the Administrative Reforms Commission which had submitted its report to the government recently.

Before getting engaged in the day's work, Mr Kumar told reporters that the change in working hours in government offices had been effected due to the demands of various employees' organisations.

''Working hours has been increased to compensate the loss in duty hours following introdution of five day weeks,'' he maintained.

He expressed hope that efficiency would be increased and work-culture would be improve as they would be granted two days paid leave in a week.

The Chief Secretary had been directed to monitor the response of employees to the revised work schedule and ensure strict implementation of the government decision on working hours.

Any section of employees, particularly women, who might face hardship in adhering to the new schedule was free to approach the Chief Secretary to voice their grievances, Mr Kumar said.

UNI