Bhubaneswar, April 16 (BNP): The Odisha government has introduced a comprehensive new transfer policy for Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) junior cadre and Odisha Revenue Service (ORS) officers, establishing structured timelines and clear guidelines for postings and transfers.

The policy is aimed at streamlining administrative functioning, enhancing transparency, and ensuring equitable distribution of officers across regions, particularly in underserved and remote areas.

Focus on Field Postings:
Under the new policy, all officers will mandatorily serve in field-level postings during the first six years of their service. Priority will be given to filling vacancies in KBK districts, Gajapati, Kandhamal, and other scheduled areas during initial postings and counselling.

Defined Transfer Window:
The general transfer process will be conducted annually between April 15 and June 15. Transfers outside this window will require approval from the competent authority.

The tenure at a particular posting has been fixed at a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, subject to review based on administrative requirements and public interest.

Implementation Guidelines:
Officers must be relieved within seven days of receiving transfer orders, failing which they will be deemed relieved automatically from the eighth day. They are also required to join their new place of posting within seven days.

The policy further stipulates that no officer can serve in a single district for more than six consecutive years, and not more than ten years in total during their service tenure.

Special Provisions:
Posting in home districts has been restricted, though relaxations may be granted under special circumstances, particularly prior to retirement. Transfers of officers with 40% or more disability will be considered based on their requests.

In the case of spouses, postings in nearby locations may be considered, though it is not guaranteed as a right.

Officers serving in KBK regions will be eligible for transfer only after completing a minimum of three years of service.

The policy also enforces a strict prohibition on any direct or indirect recommendations for transfers, reinforcing a transparent and rule-based administrative system.

Officials stated that the initiative will ensure officers gain essential field-level experience early in their careers while strengthening governance and service delivery across the state.