Message dated 19^th July 2005 from Ms Vijayalakshmi Viswanathan, FC(Railways) to all IRAS officers

 

 

It is long since I formally communicated with you. Now that the final financial results of 2004-05 are available, I must compliment all of you for the excellent performance achieved. The Operating Ratio, the index of financial health, stands at 90.98, well below the Budgetted and Revised Estimate figure. The fund balances had gone up by an impressive 49% over the opening balance and the actuals at Rs.7785 cr. are the highest ever balance achieved. I once again congratulate the FA&CAOs and their dedicated team of officers for this glorious effort.

 

          Successful conduct of the FA&CAOs Conference towards the end of May with Hon’ble MR’s address highlighting the thrust areas was a notable event. To acknowledge the efforts of the FA&CAOs, mementos were distributed by Hon’ble MR and MSR(V). I am sure this would serve as a morale booster for better contribution and commitment towards corporate goals. We have set our targets high for the current year; with ‘Mission 700’, the challenges will be greater! Let us gear ourselves to meet this ambitious goal!

 

          I must place on record the excellent support which I received from Smt. Sunita Awasthi, Additional Member (Budget), who superannuated on 31.5.2005. Her in-depth, objective analysis and precise recommendations couched in carefully chosen phrases in Queen’s English made a pleasurable reading and facilitated decision making. I wish the younger officers emulate her sincerity, objectivity, commitment and dedication! We had a nice farewell dinner at SP Marg Club to wish her a healthy, happy and contented retired life.

 

          During my recent interaction with renowned business schools abroad, I could discern the emphasis on competitive strategy arising out of the globalisation and liberalization. Our senior managers do require adequate and appropriate inputs by way of training and better exposure. Board is working towards this and concrete proposals may emerge shortly.

 

          The fourth regional seminar at Jaipur on ‘Equipping IRAS for 21^st century was well-organised. The arrangements were excellent and properly coordinated. Academicians rose up to the occasion and provided valuable inputs. There is visible enthusiasm among IRAS Officers. Alok will be putting up the details of the seminar on the web-site for the benefit of all of you.

 

          Cadre review of IRAS is nearing finalisation. I am hopeful that this will fructify within two months. This should be a matter of cheer, as the wait has been agonizingly long.

        

        My best wishes to all of you.

 

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