Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) has launched a draft Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) aimed at rationalizing its workforce across various plants, including the Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) in Jharkhand, India. The scheme allows regular employees aged 50 and above with at least 15 years of service to apply, while excluding contract, casual, and temporary workers. The VRS aims to optimize manpower, enhance productivity, and improve employees' quality of life. Compensation under the scheme will include a lump sum based on salary, completed service, gratuity, provident fund, and post-retirement medical benefits. However, the draft prohibits re-employment within SAIL or its subsidiaries and may require retirees to refund benefits if they join another public sector unit. Employees have expressed concerns that this initiative could lead to compulsory retirement measures in the future. Additionally, the scheme's cap at 75% on eligible employees has been criticized for reducing its appeal, with stakeholders like SEFI vice chairman Ajay Pandey noting the absence of safeguards to retain critical skills within the organization. Applications for the VRS will be processed online on a first-come, first-served basis, excluding those under vigilance or disciplinary proceedings.