The government has constituted a one-man committee to examine the wage structure and service conditions of gramin dak sevaks. The Department of Posts has 2.6 lakh gramin dak sevaks. Kamlesh Chandra, a retired member of the postal services board, will constitute the committee, which will be assisted by TQ Mohammad, a senior administrative grade officer, who will act as secretary. The terms of reference of the Committee will include the following.

a) To examine the system of Branch Post Offices, engagement conditions and the existing structure of wage and enrolments paid to the Gramin Dak Sevaks and recommend necessary changes;

b) To review the existing Services Discharge Benefits Scheme/other social security benefits for the Gramin Dak Sevaks and suggest necessary changes;

c) To review the existing facilities/welfare measures provided to the Gramin Dak Sevaks and suggest necessary changes;

d) To examine and suggest any changes in the method of engagement, minimum qualification for engagement as Gramin Dak Sevaks and their conduct and disciplinary rules, particularly keeping in view the proposed induction of technology in the Rural Post Offices.

Who are Gramin dak sevaks?

Gramin dak sevaks are extra-departmental agents recruited by the postal department to serve in rural areas. They have been demanding pay and facilities at par with regular postal department employees.