In a bid to enhance discipline and accountability, the Odisha Rural Development Department has implemented strict office timing norms for all staff, effective immediately.
As per the directive, employees must report to work by 10:00 AM and cannot leave before 5:30 PM on any working day.
To ensure transparency and curb absenteeism, the department has made biometric attendance mandatory. Both entry and exit must be logged through the biometric system installed in departmental corridors. Failure to record the “Office Out” time will result in the day being marked as absent.
Key Guidelines:
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Mandatory working hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
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Minimum presence: 7 hours 30 minutes daily
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Grace period: 30 minutes allowed for unforeseen delays
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Non-compliance: Less than 4 hours at work will lead to half-day or casual leave deduction
In case of emergencies, official tours, or field duties, employees must inform their branch officer in writing to avoid penalty.
The move follows complaints of irregular attendance and early departures, which officials say have been affecting the delivery of rural development schemes. With substantial funds allocated to rural infrastructure and welfare, the government is aiming to boost efficiency and service delivery at the grassroots level.
The department emphasized that disciplinary action will be taken for repeated violations of the new policy.
