9+ Latest Central Govt Employees News Today!


9+ Latest Central Govt Employees News Today!

Info pertaining to the most recent updates, coverage adjustments, and related bulletins affecting people employed by the central authorities is a essential space of focus. This encompasses a big selection of subjects together with, however not restricted to, wage revisions, modifications to advantages and allowances, amendments to service guidelines, and information concerning promotions and transfers. Such info is crucial for these staff to grasp their rights, obligations, and entitlements inside their employment.

Staying knowledgeable on developments related to employment inside the central authorities is significant for monetary planning, profession development, and sustaining compliance with relevant laws. Entry to well timed and correct particulars permits for proactive changes to private {and professional} methods. Traditionally, dissemination of this info was much less environment friendly, however developments in communication know-how have streamlined entry for workers nationwide.

Subsequent sections will delve into particular areas of concern for central authorities staff, analyzing not too long ago reported adjustments to compensation buildings, potential impacts of revised insurance policies, and rising developments affecting their skilled lives.

1. Pay Fee Updates

Pay Fee updates kind a essential part of central authorities worker information on account of their direct and vital influence on remuneration buildings. Established periodically, Pay Commissions are tasked with reviewing and recommending adjustments to the wage construction, allowances, and advantages for central authorities staff. The suggestions, as soon as accepted by the federal government, are applied, thereby altering the monetary panorama for thousands and thousands. For instance, the implementation of the seventh Pay Fee resulted in revised pay scales throughout numerous ranges of employment, resulting in substantial will increase in salaries and pensions. Understanding these updates is essential for workers to precisely assess their monetary standing and plan accordingly.

The influence of Pay Fee suggestions extends past rapid wage will increase. Changes to allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA) and Home Hire Allowance (HRA), linked to inflation and site, respectively, have a cascading impact on take-home pay and long-term financial savings. Moreover, the revised pension schemes usually integrated into Pay Fee studies immediately affect retirement planning. Think about the occasion the place a change within the pension calculation method, stemming from a Pay Fee report, led to larger pension advantages for retirees, assuaging monetary considerations of their post-employment life. Conversely, delays in implementing Pay Fee suggestions can create anxieties and monetary uncertainty, underscoring the significance of well timed and correct info.

In abstract, Pay Fee updates should not merely bulletins of pay raises; they characterize elementary shifts within the monetary ecosystem of central authorities employment. Consciousness of those updates is paramount for workers to make knowledgeable selections concerning their funds, profession development, and retirement planning. Whereas the implementation course of can typically be complicated and topic to delays, the data emanating from Pay Fee studies stays a cornerstone of related and impactful information for this phase of the workforce.

2. DA/HRA Revisions

Dearness Allowance (DA) and Home Hire Allowance (HRA) revisions are integral parts of present information for central authorities staff, considerably influencing their monetary well-being and value of dwelling changes. These allowances are periodically adjusted to offset the influence of inflation and ranging lodging prices, making their revisions a key focus of consideration.

  • DA Revision and Inflation Affect

    Dearness Allowance (DA) is revised to mitigate the erosion of buying energy on account of inflation. Primarily based on pre-defined formulation linked to the Client Value Index (CPI), revisions intention to compensate staff for elevated prices of important items and providers. For instance, a DA enhance following a interval of excessive inflation immediately interprets to elevated disposable revenue, enabling staff to take care of their dwelling requirements. Delays in DA revisions can lead to monetary pressure for workers, highlighting the significance of well timed updates.

  • HRA Revision and Location-Primarily based Prices

    Home Hire Allowance (HRA) compensates staff for lodging bills, with charges various based mostly on the worker’s location and metropolis classification (e.g., X, Y, and Z cities). HRA revisions mirror adjustments in rental prices in these completely different classes. If rental charges enhance considerably in a selected metropolis classification, a corresponding HRA revision helps staff afford appropriate housing. Stagnant HRA charges in quickly creating city areas can place a disproportionate monetary burden on staff.

  • Mixed Affect on Monetary Planning

    The mixed revisions of DA and HRA necessitate cautious monetary planning by central authorities staff. Anticipating these revisions permits for proactive changes to family budgets, financial savings methods, and funding selections. As an illustration, an anticipated enhance in each DA and HRA may immediate an worker to extend their financial savings fee or allocate funds in direction of long-term investments. Unexpected delays or decreased revisions, conversely, could require staff to curtail discretionary spending or revise their monetary targets.

  • Coverage Implications and Authorities Selections

    The federal government’s selections concerning DA and HRA revisions are influenced by a large number of things, together with inflation charges, fiscal constraints, and broader financial insurance policies. These selections are carefully scrutinized by worker unions and associations, as they immediately have an effect on the monetary pursuits of their members. Coverage adjustments associated to the calculation methodologies or frequency of revisions are additionally vital information gadgets, impacting the predictability and stability of worker compensation.

In conclusion, DA/HRA revisions represent a essential facet of central authorities worker information, reflecting the continuing efforts to regulate compensation consistent with financial realities. The interconnectedness of those revisions with inflation, location-based prices, and authorities coverage necessitates steady monitoring and knowledgeable monetary planning by all stakeholders.

3. Pension coverage adjustments

Pension coverage adjustments represent a good portion of present information for central authorities staff, because of the direct affect of those adjustments on their post-retirement monetary safety. Alterations to pension guidelines, contribution charges, or profit buildings instantly influence long-term monetary planning for this demographic. For instance, a shift from a Outlined Profit (DB) to a Outlined Contribution (DC) pension scheme necessitates a reevaluation of retirement methods and funding portfolios by staff. Such a transition locations larger duty on the person worker to handle their retirement financial savings successfully. The sensible significance lies within the want for workers to grasp the intricacies of latest insurance policies to make knowledgeable selections about their future.

Think about the Nationwide Pension System (NPS), a DC scheme adopted by the Indian authorities. Modifications to NPS laws, akin to modifications to withdrawal guidelines or funding choices, generate substantial curiosity amongst central authorities staff. An instance of that is the introduction of various life cycle funds inside the NPS, permitting staff to tailor their funding threat profile based mostly on their age and threat urge for food. Staying knowledgeable about these nuanced changes allows staff to optimize their pension financial savings and mitigate potential dangers. Conversely, a lack of information concerning coverage revisions can result in suboptimal monetary outcomes and elevated vulnerability in retirement. Moreover, debates surrounding assured pension advantages and inflation-indexed annuities always function in information associated to central authorities worker pensions.

In abstract, pension coverage adjustments kind a essential and evolving component of reports for central authorities staff. Understanding these adjustments isn’t merely a tutorial train however a sensible crucial for securing monetary stability in retirement. The complexity inherent in pension schemes underscores the necessity for accessible and well timed info. Challenges stay in successfully speaking these adjustments and empowering staff to navigate the intricacies of their pension plans, nevertheless, the significance of this information can’t be overstated for the long-term well-being of central authorities retirees.

4. Recruitment modifications

Recruitment modifications inside the central authorities immediately affect the composition and construction of its workforce, representing a key facet of present information for potential and current staff alike. Modifications to recruitment processes, eligibility standards, and examination patterns have far-reaching implications for profession alternatives and expertise acquisition.

  • Modifications in Examination Patterns

    Modifications to examination patterns, such because the introduction of latest topics or the alteration of weightage given to completely different sections, immediately influence the preparation methods of aspiring central authorities staff. As an illustration, the inclusion of a compulsory aptitude take a look at in a recruitment examination necessitates centered preparation in quantitative reasoning and problem-solving expertise. Failure to adapt to those adjustments can considerably cut back an applicant’s probabilities of success. The Union Public Service Fee (UPSC) incessantly introduces such modifications, making consciousness of those adjustments essential for candidates.

  • Alterations in Eligibility Standards

    Changes to eligibility standards, together with age limits, instructional {qualifications}, or nationality necessities, can broaden or limit the pool of eligible candidates. A leisure in age limits for sure classes, for instance, supplies alternatives for people who had been beforehand ineligible to use. Conversely, the introduction of stricter instructional qualification necessities could exclude some candidates. Notifications concerning these alterations kind a significant part of central authorities staff present information, as they immediately have an effect on particular person profession prospects.

  • Implementation of New Recruitment Businesses or Processes

    The institution of latest recruitment companies or the implementation of revised recruitment processes can streamline or complicate the choice process. The introduction of on-line utility portals and computer-based examinations, as an example, goals to reinforce effectivity and transparency. Nevertheless, these adjustments additionally require candidates to adapt to new technological platforms and procedures. Bulletins regarding the formation of latest recruitment our bodies or the restructuring of current processes characterize vital information for each job seekers and present staff.

  • Modifications in Reservation Insurance policies

    Modifications to reservation insurance policies, together with adjustments within the proportion of seats reserved for particular classes or the introduction of latest reservation standards, have a direct influence on the illustration of various teams inside the central authorities workforce. Courtroom selections and authorities directives associated to reservation insurance policies are carefully monitored, as they will alter the panorama of recruitment alternatives for numerous communities. Updates concerning reservation insurance policies are essential information gadgets that affect the equity and inclusivity of the recruitment course of.

These aspects of recruitment modifications, starting from examination sample adjustments to shifts in reservation insurance policies, underscore the dynamic nature of the employment panorama inside the central authorities. Staying knowledgeable about these adjustments is essential for aspiring staff to navigate the applying course of successfully and for present staff to grasp the evolving workforce dynamics. The influence of those modifications extends past particular person profession trajectories, shaping the general effectivity and representativeness of the central authorities workforce.

5. Switch pointers revised

Revised switch pointers kind a essential part of central authorities worker information, immediately impacting profession development, private circumstances, and organizational effectivity. Modifications to switch insurance policies, whether or not pertaining to frequency, eligibility, or standards for consideration, represent vital occasions that necessitate cautious evaluation and understanding by affected personnel. The reason for these revisions usually stems from the necessity to tackle administrative inefficiencies, enhance worker morale, or align switch practices with evolving organizational wants. As an illustration, a real-life instance is seen when revisions are made to prioritize spousal postings, immediately addressing considerations about work-life steadiness. Subsequently, the switch guideline revisions are an necessary sort of central authorities staff’ present information.

The sensible significance of understanding revised switch pointers lies in an worker’s capability to make knowledgeable selections concerning profession planning and private life. Think about a state of affairs the place new pointers prioritize staff with specialised expertise for postings in particular areas; an worker possessing these expertise may strategically place themselves to profit from such a coverage. Equally, revisions that limit the frequency of transfers can affect long-term housing and household planning selections. Many authorities departments additionally present devoted helpdesks, or maintain info periods about new revisions, highlighting their influence. One other case, adjustments to hardship posting guidelines, immediately impacts compensation and advantages.

In conclusion, the continual stream of updates surrounding switch pointers represents an important component of central authorities worker information. Navigating the complexities of those pointers requires cautious consideration to element and an consciousness of the underlying coverage aims. Challenges stay in guaranteeing equitable and clear utility of those revised guidelines, however the general intention is to create a system that balances organizational wants with the private {and professional} aspirations of the workforce. Staying abreast of those adjustments is crucial for workers to handle their careers successfully inside the framework of central authorities service.

6. Promotional avenues

Info concerning promotional avenues types a cornerstone of related present information for central authorities staff. Consciousness of alternatives for development, adjustments in promotion insurance policies, and evolving eligibility standards immediately influence profession trajectories and job satisfaction inside the governmental construction. This space of reports is of essential significance on account of its affect on worker motivation, retention, and general workforce effectivity.

  • Departmental Examination Outcomes and Schedules

    Bulletins pertaining to departmental examination outcomes and upcoming examination schedules represent a big aspect of promotional avenues information. Departmental examinations usually function a major pathway for workers to ascend to larger positions inside their respective departments. Well timed dissemination of examination schedules permits staff to organize successfully, whereas the publication of outcomes supplies essential info concerning their efficiency and eligibility for promotion. Delays or irregularities in examination processes incessantly generate appreciable concern amongst staff.

  • Modifications in Promotion Standards and Eligibility

    Modifications to promotion standards and eligibility necessities characterize one other important facet of promotional avenues information. Alterations within the weightage given to completely different efficiency metrics, instructional {qualifications}, or years of service can considerably influence an worker’s probabilities of promotion. As an illustration, the introduction of a compulsory coaching program as a prerequisite for promotion necessitates that staff full the coaching to stay eligible. Such adjustments are carefully scrutinized by staff to grasp their implications and adapt their profession improvement methods accordingly.

  • Emptiness Bulletins and Utility Procedures

    The discharge of emptiness bulletins for higher-level positions, coupled with detailed utility procedures, constitutes important information for central authorities staff searching for development. Emptiness bulletins present info on the variety of accessible positions, job descriptions, and required {qualifications}. Clear and accessible utility procedures streamline the applying course of and be certain that all eligible staff have a good alternative to use. Delays in asserting vacancies or ambiguous utility procedures can result in frustration and uncertainty amongst staff.

  • Implementation of New Promotion Insurance policies

    The implementation of totally new promotion insurance policies, usually ensuing from authorities directives or departmental restructuring, represents a big improvement inside promotional avenues information. These insurance policies can embody a variety of adjustments, together with the introduction of merit-based promotion techniques, the institution of fast-track promotion channels for high-performing staff, or the abolition of sure promotion avenues altogether. Such coverage shifts necessitate complete communication and coaching to make sure that staff perceive the brand new guidelines and their potential influence on their profession prospects.

In abstract, information associated to departmental examinations, eligibility adjustments, emptiness bulletins, and new promotion insurance policies collectively shapes the promotional panorama for central authorities staff. Entry to well timed, correct, and clear info concerning these aspects empowers staff to make knowledgeable selections about their profession paths, enhancing their prospects for development and contributing to a extra motivated and environment friendly workforce.

7. Depart rule amendments

Depart rule amendments are an integral component of present information pertaining to central authorities staff on account of their direct influence on work-life steadiness and worker well-being. Modifications to go away insurance policies, whether or not regarding the varieties of depart accessible, the procedures for making use of for depart, or the length of depart entitlements, immediately have an effect on the power of staff to handle private {and professional} obligations. The impetus for these adjustments usually arises from evolving social norms, judicial pronouncements, or the necessity to align depart insurance policies with worldwide finest practices. As an illustration, amendments offering for elevated parental depart mirror a rising recognition of the significance of shared childcare obligations. As a part of central authorities worker information, depart rule revisions demand consideration on account of their broad implications for workforce administration and worker morale.

The sensible significance of understanding depart rule amendments lies in enabling staff to make the most of their depart entitlements successfully and navigate unexpected private circumstances. Think about the instance of an worker requiring prolonged depart on account of a medical emergency affecting a member of the family. If the worker is unaware of current amendments to the foundations governing compassionate depart, they won’t have the ability to avail themselves of the accessible assist. Equally, adjustments to the foundations concerning accumulation or encashment of earned depart can affect monetary planning selections. Moreover, amendments usually tackle ambiguities or inconsistencies in current insurance policies, selling larger transparency and decreasing the potential for disputes. For instance, clarification on the eligibility standards for availing examine depart can forestall misunderstandings and guarantee equitable entry to alternatives for skilled improvement.

In conclusion, depart rule amendments represent a essential aspect of central authorities worker information, impacting worker welfare and organizational effectiveness. Challenges stay in guaranteeing that these amendments are successfully communicated and applied throughout numerous departments and ranges of presidency. The continuing refinement of depart insurance policies displays a steady effort to steadiness the wants of staff with the operational necessities of the central authorities. Staying knowledgeable about these adjustments is crucial for workers to train their rights and handle their obligations successfully inside the framework of their employment.

8. Healthcare advantages information

Healthcare advantages information constitutes a pivotal subset of the broader “central govt staff present information” class, primarily on account of its profound influence on the well-being and monetary safety of presidency staff and their dependents. Amendments to healthcare schemes, expansions in protection, modifications to say procedures, and alterations in empanelled hospitals immediately have an effect on entry to medical care and the monetary burden related to healthcare bills. The cause-and-effect relationship is obvious: adjustments in authorities healthcare coverage translate immediately into tangible outcomes for workers, influencing their high quality of life and monetary stability. The significance of this information lies in its capability to empower staff to make knowledgeable selections about their healthcare choices and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system successfully.

For instance, the introduction of cashless remedy services at a wider community of hospitals considerably reduces the out-of-pocket bills for workers throughout medical emergencies. Equally, the inclusion of latest therapies or therapies beneath the prevailing healthcare scheme broadens the scope of accessible medical care, probably bettering well being outcomes. Conversely, revisions that enhance premium contributions or limit protection can create monetary pressure and restrict entry to important healthcare providers. Moreover, bulletins pertaining to well being camps, preventive healthcare initiatives, and consciousness campaigns play an important position in selling worker well being and stopping persistent ailments. Updates concerning accepted hospitals, declare settlement processes, and grievance redressal mechanisms are additionally of great sensible worth. The implementation of digital platforms for accessing healthcare info and submitting claims represents a technological development designed to streamline the method for workers.

In conclusion, healthcare advantages information is a essential part of the data panorama for central authorities staff, immediately shaping their entry to high quality healthcare and influencing their general well-being. Challenges stay in guaranteeing equitable entry to healthcare providers throughout completely different areas and worker classes, in addition to in successfully speaking complicated coverage adjustments to the workforce. Nevertheless, the continuing efforts to enhance and increase healthcare advantages underscore the federal government’s dedication to the well being and safety of its staff. Staying knowledgeable about these developments is crucial for workers to optimize their healthcare choices and preserve a wholesome and productive life.

9. Coaching program updates

Info concerning updates to coaching applications types a big facet of present information for central authorities staff. These updates, encompassing modifications to current applications, introductions of latest initiatives, and alterations in eligibility standards, immediately affect talent improvement, profession development, and organizational effectiveness inside the authorities sector.

  • Curriculum Revisions

    Curriculum revisions inside coaching applications are sometimes applied to align talent improvement with evolving job necessities and technological developments. For instance, the introduction of modules on information analytics inside an administrative coaching program displays the growing significance of data-driven decision-making in governance. Such revisions necessitate that staff adapt to new talent units and methodologies. The sensible implication is that those that embrace these adjustments improve their profession prospects, whereas those that resist could face challenges in adapting to evolving office calls for. Such curriculum upgrades have to be an necessary a part of the central authorities staff present information.

  • Modifications in Coaching Modalities

    Modifications to coaching modalities, akin to a shift from classroom-based instruction to on-line studying platforms, intention to reinforce accessibility and adaptability. The adoption of e-learning modules, as an example, permits staff to pursue skilled improvement alternatives at their very own tempo and comfort. Nevertheless, this transition additionally requires that staff possess the mandatory technological expertise and entry to dependable web connectivity. The implications for workers in distant areas or these missing digital literacy might be vital, highlighting the necessity for assist mechanisms to make sure equitable entry to coaching alternatives.

  • Introduction of New Coaching Initiatives

    The introduction of latest coaching initiatives, usually focused at addressing particular talent gaps or selling new coverage aims, represents a proactive strategy to workforce improvement. As an illustration, the launch of a specialised coaching program on cybersecurity displays the rising significance of safeguarding delicate information and defending authorities infrastructure from cyber threats. These initiatives sometimes contain focused recruitment of contributors and rigorous analysis of outcomes. Staying knowledgeable about these new applications is essential for workers searching for to reinforce their experience in rising areas.

  • Alterations in Eligibility Standards

    Changes to eligibility standards for coaching applications can broaden or limit the pool of eligible contributors. A leisure in eligibility necessities, akin to decreasing the minimal years of service required, permits extra staff to entry coaching alternatives. Conversely, the introduction of stricter tutorial conditions could exclude some candidates. Bulletins concerning these alterations kind a significant part of present information for central authorities staff, as they immediately have an effect on particular person profession development alternatives. Subsequently, consciousness of eligibility adjustments is crucial for workers to proactively handle their profession trajectories.

These aspects of coaching program updates, from curriculum revisions to eligibility alterations, underscore the dynamic nature {of professional} improvement inside the central authorities. Entry to well timed and correct info concerning these adjustments empowers staff to make knowledgeable selections about their studying and profession paths, in the end contributing to a extra expert and adaptable workforce.

Continuously Requested Questions

This part addresses widespread inquiries regarding current developments impacting central authorities staff, providing readability on pertinent points.

Query 1: What’s the course of for monitoring Pay Fee suggestions?

Official authorities notifications, press releases from the Ministry of Finance, and studies revealed on the Division of Expenditure’s web site function major sources for monitoring Pay Fee suggestions. Worker unions and acknowledged service associations might also present evaluation and summaries.

Query 2: How incessantly are Dearness Allowance (DA) charges revised?

Dearness Allowance (DA) charges are sometimes revised bi-annually, in January and July, based mostly on the All India Client Value Index (AICPI) for Industrial Employees. The precise proportion enhance is set by a pre-defined method established by the federal government.

Query 3: The place can info on adjustments to the Central Authorities Well being Scheme (CGHS) be discovered?

The official CGHS web site, together with circulars issued by the Ministry of Well being and Household Welfare, are the authoritative sources for info concerning adjustments to CGHS guidelines, empanelled hospitals, and protection particulars.

Query 4: What are the implications of the brand new Nationwide Pension System (NPS) guidelines?

The implications of latest NPS guidelines fluctuate relying on the particular adjustments applied. Nevertheless, they sometimes concern contribution charges, funding choices, withdrawal laws, and annuity schemes. Official NPS circulars and monetary advisory providers supply detailed explanations.

Query 5: How do switch insurance policies issue into hardship postings?

Switch insurance policies incessantly incorporate provisions for hardship postings, which contain assignments to areas characterised by difficult dwelling situations or safety dangers. These postings usually carry further allowances and preferential consideration for future transfers to desired areas.

Query 6: What assets can be found for understanding new Depart Journey Concession (LTC) guidelines?

Division-specific administrative orders and circulars issued by the Division of Personnel and Coaching (DoPT) present detailed pointers on the eligibility standards, procedures, and permissible locations beneath the Depart Journey Concession (LTC) scheme.

Staying knowledgeable about these essential features is crucial for central authorities staff to navigate their careers successfully.

The subsequent article part will concentrate on the assets for workers to remain knowledgeable about “central govt staff present information”.

Efficient Methods for Staying Knowledgeable

Sustaining consciousness of present information related to central authorities staff requires a proactive and systematic strategy. The next methods are designed to help people in staying abreast of essential developments impacting their employment.

Tip 1: Usually Monitor Official Authorities Web sites: Direct entry to major sources ensures accuracy. The web sites of the Division of Personnel and Coaching (DoPT), the Ministry of Finance, and related departmental web sites supply official notifications, circulars, and coverage paperwork.

Tip 2: Subscribe to Authorities Newsletters and Alerts: Many authorities companies supply e mail subscription providers that ship well timed updates on coverage adjustments, bulletins, and different related info immediately to at least one’s inbox.

Tip 3: Interact with Acknowledged Worker Unions and Service Associations: These organizations usually present summaries, analyses, and clarifications of complicated authorities insurance policies, performing as intermediaries between the federal government and its staff.

Tip 4: Make the most of Respected Information Aggregators and Info Platforms: Choose information sources specializing in authorities affairs and public coverage, guaranteeing that the data is correct, goal, and related to the pursuits of central authorities staff.

Tip 5: Attend Departmental Briefings and City Corridor Conferences: These gatherings present alternatives to listen to immediately from authorities officers, ask questions, and achieve insights into ongoing developments inside one’s particular division or company.

Tip 6: Leverage Authorities Social Media Channels: Many governmental departments and ministries at the moment are energetic on social media. Following their official accounts is a option to obtain quick information and updates.

Tip 7: Take part in related On-line Boards and Communities: Participating in discussions about authorities information may also help staff perceive the implications and share helpful assets.

Constantly implementing these methods will facilitate a complete understanding of the evolving panorama affecting central authorities staff. Staying knowledgeable is essential for efficient profession administration, monetary planning, and general well-being.

The next and closing part of this text will synthesize the aforementioned insights, culminating in a concise abstract of the core findings.

Conclusion

This text has comprehensively explored the multifaceted area of “central govt staff present information.” Key areas of focus included updates to pay commissions, Dearness Allowance (DA) and Home Hire Allowance (HRA) revisions, pension coverage adjustments, recruitment modifications, switch pointers, promotional avenues, depart rule amendments, healthcare advantages, and coaching program updates. Every of those parts considerably influences the monetary well-being, profession development, and general high quality of life for people employed by the central authorities. Staying knowledgeable about these developments isn’t merely a matter of consciousness however a necessity for efficient profession administration and monetary planning.

The continual evolution of insurance policies and laws affecting central authorities staff underscores the significance of proactive info gathering. Entry to well timed and correct particulars empowers people to make knowledgeable selections, adapt to altering circumstances, and navigate the complexities of their employment successfully. As the federal government sector continues to evolve, a dedication to staying knowledgeable will stay a essential asset for central authorities staff searching for to thrive of their careers and safe their monetary futures.