Medvedev has vowed to implement a series of reforms to modernise Russia but opponents say he has so far failed to implement the promises and remains in the shadow of Putin, who is viewed by most Russians as the country's paramount leader.
"Despite the fact that I pretty often receive reports from the regions and the government, they do not always look substantive," Medvedev was shown on state television telling a video conference with ministers and regional governors.
"Very often these are just excuses ... and when you get down to the crux of the matter, it transpires that in fact nothing has been done," Medvedev said.
"Those who do not fulfil (orders) must be removed from their jobs and thrown out onto the street."
Putin, who stepped down as president in May 2008 after two four-year terms as Kremlin chief, remains by far Russia's most popular politician and many analysts believe he may return to run for presidential office at a later date.
Medvedev, 44, has promised to open up the tightly controlled political system, modernise the economy and fight corruption, but many diplomats say little has been achieved so far.
Medvedev mentioned no names of those who could be fired.
But he warned officials to beware of their aides who he said often filtered information and told the meeting that all officials should get first hand information from ordinary Russians about their problems.
Kremlin aide Konstantin Chuichenko was quoted by local media as telling the video conference that the defense, energy and regional development ministries were the worst at implementing Medvedev's orders. He did not elaborate.
The Kremlin said that those present at the meeting included Deputy Prime Ministers Sergei Sobyanin, Alexander Khloponin and Alexander Zhukov.
Economics Minister Economy Minister Elvira Nabiullina and Prosecutor General Yuri Chaika were also present, the Kremlin said.
