Service organizations generally welcomed the move to introduce a five-day week in government offices at a meeting called by Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak here on Friday.
The weekly loss of seven working hours resulting from the five-day week can be replaced by adjusting daily working hours, the organizations have suggested. At the same time, according to them, the number of vacations currently available to employees should not be reduced according to the proposed system.
Mr. Jayathilak called an online meeting to get feedback from the organizations. General Administration Secretary K. Biju was also present. However, the government did not present a detailed plan at the meeting, which drew criticism from organizations.
Organizations representing government doctors and medical faculty have urged the government to hold separate meetings to discuss specific issues affecting them under the proposal.
To reduce expenses
Representatives of around 80 organizations including NGO Union, NGO Association, Joint Council, Secretariat Action Council, Kerala Secretariat Association, NGO Sangh and Kerala Secretariat Employees Association attended Friday’s meeting. The government’s proposal for a five-day week is said to be aimed at reducing operating expenses and government spending in general.
The Kerala Secretariat Association said in a statement that the government is yet to come out with its own proposal for a five-day work week. The government should do so as soon as possible, the association said. The association also called on the government to consider introducing flexible working hours for employees.
Published – 06 Feb 2026 21:41 IST