Shimla, July 25:
Retired HAS officer D.K. Manta has stepped down as Member of the State Appellate Authority under MGNREGA, marking the end of an eventful 3 years and 10 months tenure.
Known for his efficient handling of grievances, Manta helped dispose of 121 out of 122 appeals filed against district Ombudsman decisions—most within just two months.
“This might be the most effective grievance redressal system after RTI,” Manta noted in his farewell message. He was part of the first Appellate Authority in Himachal Pradesh to complete a full four-year term.
Post-retirement, Manta also served as a member of the District Child Welfare Committee (2017–2020) and briefly as CEO of the Building and Construction Workers Welfare Board. Across his seven years in statutory bodies, he received an honorarium of Rs. 35 lakh.
He credited his journey to the unwavering support of colleagues, particularly naming Dr. S.P. Bhardwaj, B.D. Sharma, Rakesh Sharma (IAS Retd.), and members of the HAS Officers’ Association, including Sharwan Manta and Prashant Sirkek.
With a note of gratitude and satisfaction, Manta said he looks forward to staying connected with public service in meaningful ways.
