Take Up Telecom Issues Related To Running Of Emergency Services On Priority: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Communications and postal minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has given instructions to strengthen the telecom and postal network to ensure that connectivity remains robust during efforts to tackle coronavirus menace.

The minister said that emergency requirements for establishing and maintaining helplines/IVR systems, control rooms, hospitals, and ambulance services should be taken up on a priority basis.

“Posts and telecom are essential services and they must be maintained without any interruption,” the minister said in a review meeting.

Prasad also said that post offices, which have the largest network across the country, should be leveraged upon for delivery of essentials like medicine, masks, Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), with the coordination of state governments.

“The concept of ‘post office on wheels’ should be promoted and established in all the circles,” he said.

He also said that Aadhar-enabled payment system, which enables any individual to get payment from any bank at their doorstep, should be implemented with full force and vigour. Similarly, working of postal ATMs should be ensured to allow continuation of essential services to the common people at this hour of crisis.

Prasad said that several states which are implementing direct-benefit transfer (DBT) and cash delivery at the doorstep for various welfare schemes like Widow and old-age pension should implement these initiatives within the stipulated time frame.

―Times of India