Streamlining Transfers for Group 'C' and Group 'B' Officials: New Guidelines from the Postal Directorate
In an effort to bring clarity and efficiency to the transfer process of postal officials, the Postal Directorate has issued new guidelines for the transfer of Group 'C' officials, Group 'B' (non-gazetted) officials, and Assistant Superintendents of Posts (Group 'B' Gazetted). These guidelines aim to address the nuances of temporary transfers and ensure a streamlined process for all involved.
Referencing the Directorate communication no. 141-141/2013-SPBII dated 17.01.2019, the recent modifications address requests for both inter-circle and intra-circle temporary transfers. The key provision previously allowed officials to be temporarily transferred for a maximum period of three years in one or two spells, with a mandatory gap of three years between two spells.
However, questions arose regarding whether an official, while on a temporary transfer, could apply for another temporary transfer without adhering to the three-year gap. The latest update clarifies this issue:
1. **Continuous Temporary Transfer Allowed:** Officials on a temporary transfer can apply for another temporary transfer to a different unit without the three-year gap, provided they join the new unit immediately after the approved period of the initial temporary transfer without returning to their parent unit.
2. **Approval Process:** Such cases require approval from the Chief Postmaster General (CPMG) of both the originating and receiving circles.
3. **Maximum Period Enforcement:** The total period of temporary transfers across all circles must not exceed three years.
For ease of understanding, consider the following example:
- An official from Circle X, on temporary transfer to Circle Y until 31.12.2024, can apply for a temporary transfer to Circle Z.
- This transfer will be treated as continuous, not attracting the three-year gap provision.
- With approval from the CPMG of Circle X and Circle Z, the transfer to Circle Z will be effective from 01.01.2025, immediately after the approved period to Circle Y.
- The total period of temporary transfers in Circles Y and Z combined will not exceed three years.
These updated guidelines are effective immediately and are expected to bring about a more flexible and responsive transfer process for postal officials, ensuring that their needs are met without compromising the efficiency of postal services.
By introducing these changes, the Postal Directorate continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting its workforce through thoughtful and practical policy adjustments.