Public sector companies like Sail have traversed a long trajectory. Proactive leadership and a capable workforce have contributed to their turnaround, but as the editorial “From Navaratna to Maharatna” (January 4) points out, political interference has been the biggest obstacle in their progress. The interference is pronounced in mega investments too, and it remains to be seen how much of the financial leverage being granted to the Maharatna companies will be practised in reality.
Moreover, almost all board-level appointments are political in nature, making the incumbents beholden to the government of the day.
Certain government policies like reservation of posts for recruitment and promotions, and insistence on selection from employment exchange-sponsored candidates limit employment options. The battery of vigilance outfits, from internal set-ups to the CBI, curtails initiative and bold strategies.
Therefore, PSUs should be granted autonomy and once this is implemented, they would have the human capital wherewithal to deliver.
YG Chouksey, Pune
