No Inter-Cadre Transfer Policy in GST Dept, Says Minister

In a recent response to a parliamentary question raised in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister of State for Finance, Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, clarified that the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) currently has no policy for inter-cadre transfers in the GST department. The statement was made in response to queries from Shri Chandrakant Damodar Handore, addressing concerns about the absence of such a policy and its impact on Group B and C officers, particularly women Superintendents seeking postings in their home states.

Reasons for the Absence of Inter-Cadre Transfer Policy

The minister explained that the Group B and C cadres under the CBIC are decentralized, functioning under various Cadre Controlling Authorities (CCAs). Officers are allocated to a CCA based on a merit-cum-preference basis at the time of their initial appointment. Once assigned, they can only be transferred within the jurisdiction of their respective CCA. The Recruitment Rules for these posts do not permit transfers between different cadres, as stated by Chaudhary. However, officers have the option to apply for deputation postings across the country, subject to obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their CCA.

Challenges for Superintendents Seeking Home Postings

The lack of an inter-cadre transfer policy poses significant challenges for Superintendents, including women officers, who seek postings in their home states after serving extended periods in their allotted cadres. The minister noted that the Superintendent cadre is a Zonal cadre, restricting officers to serve within the jurisdiction of their assigned Zone. However, Superintendents, including women, can apply for positions such as Additional Assistant Directors (AADs) in various CBIC Directorates across India on deputation, provided they secure an NOC from their CCA.

No Plans for a New Transfer Policy

When asked whether the government intends to introduce an inter-cadre transfer policy to provide relief to its officials, the minister stated that no such proposal is currently under consideration. This response highlights the government’s stance on maintaining the existing framework, despite concerns raised about the lack of flexibility for officers seeking transfers to their preferred locations.

Implications for GST Department Officers

The absence of an inter-cadre transfer policy has sparked discussions about the need for greater flexibility in the CBIC’s cadre management system. Officers, particularly those in the Superintendent grade, face limited options for relocating closer to their home states, which can impact work-life balance, especially for women officers. The reliance on deputation and NOCs adds an additional layer of complexity, as approvals are subject to the discretion of CCAs.

As the GST department continues to play a critical role in India’s tax administration, the lack of a transfer policy may prompt further calls for reforms to address the needs of its workforce.

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