The Hindu Business Line : BSNL seeks to shed 20,000 staff through retirement plan

New Delhi, July 31 With a view to streamline its massive workforce, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) has sought DoT’s nod for voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) for 20,000 employees in the C and D group in the first phase. The corporation also plans to hire Class I officers to enhance operational efficiency.

“We have written to the Government over our proposal to give VRS to 20,000 employees in the C & D group. They have some queries over the proposal and we will shortly reply,” the outgoing BSNL CMD, Mr A.K. Sinha, said adding that company would also recruit management trainees for Class I officers.

Mr Sinha’s comments came even as the Communications and IT Minister, Mr A. Raja, asked BSNL to improve its manpower planning. “The aim of BSNL to sustain as a market leader is highly at risk with a large workforce in the above-40 age bracket,” the Minister said.

Earlier today, Mr Raja speaking at a convention eIndia 2007, said that BSNL plans to invite fresh bids for installing about 40-50 million lines to expand its cellular capacity within 8-9 months. “I am told that they are ready to go for a larger tender, approximately 40-50 million lines,” Mr Raja said.

He also said that the Group of Ministers looking into release of spectrum by defence forces and others, for civilian use will meet in mid-August.

More Stories on : Telecommunications | Manpower

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page