Ladakh Gets MHA Nod for Ad-Hoc Promotions to Group 'B' Gazetted Posts

Leh, Jul 28: 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 measure, providing relief to departments grappling with a shortage of gazetted officers and officials awaiting promotion. According to an official spokesperson, the approval was conveyed by the MHA in a communication dated July 27. The ministry stated that while efforts are underway to evolve a long-term mechanism to address the shortage of officers, the Union Territory Administration may temporarily fill vacancies falling under the promotion quota through ad-hoc promotions until a regular promotion process is established. The decision follows the intervention of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, who had taken up the matter with the Union Home Ministry, highlighting the acute shortage of Group 'B' Gazetted Administrative Service officers in Ladakh. The Lt Governor had pointed out that regular promotions have remained pending as the relevant Recruitment Rules are yet to be notified, resulting in a shortage of gazetted officers and affecting the functioning of several government departments. Officials said the interim arrangement is expected to provide immediate relief by enabling eligible officers to receive promotions while ensuring administrative continuity across the Union Territory. The move is also expected to improve governance, speed up decision-making and strengthen public service delivery. Welcoming the MHA's decision, Lt Governor Saxena said the approval would not only address the genuine aspirations of officers awaiting promotion but also enhance administrative efficiency in Ladakh. "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 initiate the promotion process immediately," the Lt Governor said. The MHA has, however, clarified that all ad-hoc promotions must be carried out strictly in accordance with the Department of Personnel and Training's Office Memorandum dated April 3, 2013, along with subsequent amendments and other applicable instructions, subject to fulfilment of all prescribed conditions. The decision is expected to ease staffing constraints in key government departments until a permanent promotion mechanism is put in place through notified Recruitment Rules.