New Guidelines Limit Tenure in Districts and Blocks

Bhubaneswar: The General Administration & Public Grievance Department of Odisha has released new transfer guidelines for state employees, aiming to streamline postings and ensure transparency.

According to the order dated May 22, 2026, transfers will generally occur between April 15 and June 15 each year, with exceptions requiring higher authority approval.

Officers are to be shifted after three years in a station, while Group A and B officers cannot remain in one district beyond six years. Similarly, Group C employees will be limited to six years in a block or tehsil.

The guidelines discourage postings in home districts, particularly in sensitive roles, though employees completing six years in the KBK region may be considered for relocation.

Married couples in state service may be posted together where feasible.

In the Secretariat and offices of Heads of Departments, no officer will remain in the same seat beyond three years unless special circumstances apply.

Transfer orders must clearly specify relieving and joining details, and any relaxation must be justified in writing in the public interest.

Departments have been instructed to strictly adhere to these principles and align internal policies accordingly.