MHA approves ad-hoc promotions to fill vacant Group ‘B’ Gazetted posts in Ladakh
Srinagar, July 28 (KINS): The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the filling of vacant Group ‘B’ Gazetted Administrative Service posts in Ladakh through ad-hoc promotions as an interim arrangement, aimed at addressing the shortage of Gazetted officers in the Union Territory.
An official spokesperson said the decision was conveyed through an MHA communication dated July 27, stating that while steps are underway to find a long-term solution for the shortage of officers, the Ladakh Administration may fill available vacancies under the promotion quota through ad-hoc promotions until a regular promotion mechanism is established.
The move follows the intervention of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, who had taken up the issue with the Home Ministry, highlighting the acute shortage of officers in Group ‘B’ Gazetted Administrative Service posts.
The spokesperson said regular promotions to these posts had remained pending as the relevant Recruitment Rules are yet to be notified, affecting administrative functioning across various departments due to the shortage of Gazetted officers.
The approval is expected to provide immediate relief to officials awaiting promotions and help departments ensure continuity in governance, quicker decision-making and improved public service delivery across Ladakh.
Welcoming the decision, LG Saxena said the move would strengthen governance in Ladakh and address the concerns of officials awaiting promotion.
“It will help overcome the shortage of Gazetted officers, improve administrative efficiency and ensure uninterrupted delivery of public services. I have directed the Chief Secretary to start the promotion process immediately,” he said.
The MHA has also advised that the ad-hoc promotions should be carried out strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Department of Personnel and Training Office Memorandum dated April 3, 2013, along with subsequent amendments and other relevant instructions, subject to fulfilment of prescribed conditions. (KINS)
