New Delhi: In probably the first case of its kind in a political party, the Congress has offered a Voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) to all its regular employees in a bid to cut down staff and enhance efficiency.

VRS has been offered to employees who have completed regular service of minimum five years in the organisation.

"The AICC (All India Congress Committee) has decided to offer VRS. The objective is to provide an opportunity to the employees to opt for early retirement, in case they so desire," an AICC circular issued by party treasurer Moti Lal Vora in New Delhi on October 26 said.

The circular said the number of employees in the AICC were "surplus, more than they are actually required".

"The employees have every right to accept or reject the proposal without assigning any reason," the notice said. Under the scheme, which is open for 15 days between October 26 and November 9, the party has offered all statutory dues and 15 days' salary multiplied by the remaining years of service. The amount will be released within 15 days of the closure of the VRS scheme, the circular said.