Govt Orders Strict Enforcement of Women’s Job Quota in Federal Services

The federal government has directed all ministries and departments to ensure strict enforcement of the 10 percent quota reserved for women in public sector employment. In a circular issued to ministries, divisions, and attached institutions, departments have been instructed to immediately review their staffing and submit updated records showing how the quota is being implemented. The data will be compiled into a consolidated report for senior authorities to assess which organizations are meeting policy requirements and where gaps persist. Departments have been asked to provide the total number of sanctioned posts, how many of those have been filled through the women’s quota, and how many remain vacant. They must also give reasons for non-utilization of reserved positions and outline corrective measures to improve future recruitment. The government stressed that the quota policy must be implemented “in letter and spirit,” reiterating that fair representation of women is a key objective of public sector reform. The move comes amid increasing calls from legislators and civil society to address the low proportion of women in federal roles, particularly in mid- to senior-level posts. Organizations that require relaxation of recruitment bans to fill posts under the women quota have been instructed to formally notify the relevant authorities, ensuring that no sanctioned seats remain unfilled due to administrative delays. The directive forms part of a broader effort to widen workforce participation and improve gender inclusion in policymaking and governance.