📷 Image Credits: Deccan Chronicle
In a significant decision, the Telangana state government has lifted a six-year-old ban on general transfers of employees, bringing immense relief to around three lakh employees and 1.5 lakh teachers in various departments and government schools. The ban, which was imposed by the previous BRS government in 2018, had been a long-pending demand of government employees. The ban lift came as the state government issued a government order (GO No.80) on Wednesday, allowing transfers to take place between July 1 to July 20. The move also outlined specific norms for transfers, such as the completion of two years of service in a particular station as of June 30, 2024, before any employee can be transferred. However, exceptions are made in cases of transfer requests on spouse grounds or for retiring employees before June 30, 2025.
Moreover, to ensure a smooth implementation of the transfer process, the government has set guidelines to avoid dislocation of work by limiting transfers to not more than 40% of employees in any cadre. Additionally, the heads of departments are mandated to publish a list of incumbents working category-wise and cadre-wise in all units under their jurisdiction for transparency. The policy also requires the publication of clear vacancies and a compulsory list of employees to be transferred.
This decision by the Telangana government marks a significant milestone in addressing the long-standing grievances of state employees. The lifting of the ban on general transfers is expected to bring much-needed relief to employees who have been awaiting transfers for several years, ensuring that no employee works at the same place beyond five years. Employees emphasized the hardships faced over the past decade due to the ban, with many unable to utilize the previous transfer facilities.
The move by the government to facilitate general transfers holds immense importance for both newly-recruited employees and senior employees, offering them an opportunity to get postings of their choice based on seniority. Furthermore, the easing of the ban on ‘spouse transfers’ will also alleviate the difficulties faced by nearly 83,000 couples posted in different districts, along with their dependent family members. Overall, this decision is poised to positively impact the work environment and employee satisfaction within state departments.
The lifting of the ban on general transfers is a welcome step towards fulfilling the demands of state employees and teachers, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of its workforce. With the upcoming transfers scheduled between July 1 to July 20, employees can anticipate a more dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth and mobility. This decision by the Telangana government is a testament to its responsiveness to the needs of its employees, setting a positive precedent for effective governance and employee welfare.
