Bhubaneswar: In a bid to maintain impartiality and honesty, the Odisha Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment department has issued a circular advising its staff against accepting gifts from individuals or organizations during festivals like Diwali.
The circular, issued by Principal Secretary Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, emphasises that accepting gifts may create confusion about the department’s integrity. All officers and employees are strictly prohibited from accepting any gifts, hampers, or favours from individuals, organisations, or agencies.
The directive warns that violating this instruction will be considered as encouraging corruption. It cites the importance of not just being honest but also appearing to be honest. The department has asked all office heads to ensure compliance with these instructions and inform their staff accordingly.
