The Standing Committee on Finance has flagged a "crippling" 43% vacancy

Why in news

The Standing Committee on Finance flagged a 43% vacancy rate in the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM), hindering the management of assets worth over ₹42.76 lakh crore.

Background

DIPAM currently operates with 51 officers against a sanctioned strength of 89, leaving 38 positions vacant. The department manages assets worth ₹42.76 lakh crore with an annual budget of ₹55.92 crore.

Facts for Prelims

• BodyDIPAM: Department of Investment and Public Asset Management, under the Ministry of Finance.
• FactDIPAM manages assets worth over ₹42.76 lakh crore.
• BodyDoPT: Department of Personnel and Training, responsible for recruitment and manpower.
• BodyDoE: Department of Expenditure, handles the budget and financial management.

For Mains

Q. Discuss the challenges faced by government departments in managing large-scale public assets amidst manpower shortages and budgetary constraints. Suggest measures to streamline administrative efficiency.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• administrative bottlenecks
• human resource management
• fiscal efficiency
• way forward: automation and task forces

Keywords: administrative efficiency · manpower shortage · public asset management · institutional oversight · fiscal prudence

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