Context:
In a landmark move towards employee welfare, the Jharkhand government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Bank of India (SBI) on Thursday, enhancing the salary package benefits for state government employees. The agreement was formalized in the presence of Chief Minister Hemant Soren and key state and bank officials.
Key Highlights of the MoU
- Eligibility:
- All state government employees with salary accounts at SBI.
- Primary Benefits:
- Accidental insurance coverage up to ₹1 crore
- Health and life insurance benefits
- Enhanced banking services at no extra cost
- Signatories:
- Rajeshwari B (Special Secretary, Finance Department) and Devesh Mittal (Deputy GM, SBI) signed the MoU.
- Witnessed By:
- CM Hemant Soren, Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore, Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, SBI’s CGM K.B. Bangaraju, and other senior officials.
Chief Minister’s Remarks
- Commitment to Welfare:
- CM Hemant Soren called the MoU a “new chapter in financial security” for government staff and reiterated the state’s dedication to employee welfare.
- Insurance Impact:
- He highlighted that the insurance cover will provide critical financial support to families in case of employee fatality during service.
- Addressing Modern-Day Uncertainty:
- The CM acknowledged the increasing unpredictability in today’s world, stressing the need for financial safeguards.
- Appreciation of SBI:
- Soren praised SBI for partnering in this initiative, especially in a “backward state like Jharkhand.”
Broader Vision for Governance and Morale
- CM emphasized the pivotal role of government employees in implementing state policies.
- Urged all employees to continue serving with integrity and dedication.
- Assured ongoing efforts to create a secure and respectful work environment.
This MoU stands as a significant milestone in government employee welfare in Jharkhand, aligning with the broader vision of social security and institutional support. It also marks an effective collaboration between the government and