Punjab Government Directive: Phones On After Hours .

Chandigarh, April 29, 2025

In a move to strengthen governance and improve public service delivery, the Punjab government issued a directive. It mandates all state officials to keep their mobile phones switched on beyond office hours and during holidays. This step aims to reduce administrative delays and ensure officials remain accessible during public emergencies.

Punjab Government Directive to Improve Accessibility

On April 26, 2025, the Department of Personnel shared the official order. It stated that all government officials must stay reachable on their phones even after office hours. The state issued this directive to address rising concerns about officials being unavailable during critical tasks or emergencies.

Often, officials missed calls because their phones were off, unreachable, or redirected. Consequently, these issues disrupted urgent work and caused frustration. The new rule aims to prevent such lapses. It encourages better accountability and more responsive governance.

Ensuring Efficiency in Public Service Delivery Through the Punjab Government Directive

The government wants to improve coordination between departments. It also seeks to enhance policy implementation. Therefore, it expects officials to respond to emergency calls and urgent messages without delay.

The directive explains how unavailability disrupts progress, stalls projects, and leaves citizens waiting for answers. Now, with mobile phones considered essential for daily administration, officials must stay connected. This change will promote faster communication and problem-solving.

Political Backing and Public Reaction

Political leaders quickly backed the decision. AAP MLA Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer called the directive bold and necessary. He said it would help restore public trust in the system. He also noted that constant access to officials would improve accountability.

In addition, he stressed the importance of better public engagement. Citizens also responded positively. They believe the step will strengthen service delivery and make the system more efficient.

Balancing Accessibility with Well-Being

While the directive promotes availability, it also highlights the importance of well-being. The order does not expect officials to work continuously. Instead, it urges them to stay reachable for critical issues during off-hours.

The government encourages a balanced approach. Officials should stay accessible but also maintain their mental and physical health. This approach supports both responsibility and sustainable work culture.

A Step Towards Responsible Governance

This order reflects Punjab’s broader efforts to build transparent and proactive governance. With greater digital reach and rising public expectations, the state focuses on fast, citizen-centered service.

Mobile phones now serve as tools for accountability. By ensuring accessibility, the Punjab government sets a strong example. It shows how simple digital practices can enhance governance and meet people’s needs effectively.

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