The Odisha government released comprehensive guidelines for the transfer and posting of employees to promote transparency, uniformity, and efficiency across departments.
The General Administration and Public Grievance Department issued the order numbered 16068(e)/Gen. dated May 22, 2026, reiterating and strengthening the existing transfer policy. The government addressed inconsistencies in the implementation of transfer rules and referenced Book Circular No. 42 of April 18, 1967, which had not been uniformly followed.
Transfers will normally occur between April 15 and June 15 each year, and any exceptions will require approval from higher authorities. Officers will be transferred after three years in a station, while Group A and B officers cannot remain in one district for more than six years. Group C employees will follow the same limit for a block or tehsiil.
The Odisha transfer and posting guidelines discourage posting officers in their home districts, especially in sensitive positions. However, those completing six years in the KBK region may be considered for home postings. Couples working under the state government may be posted together wherever feasible.
For non-transferable cadres in the Secretariat and Heads of Departments, no one shall remain in a seat for more than three years except under special circumstances. Transfer orders must specify relieving and joining details, and any relaxation will require written justification in the public interest..
Departments have been directed to strictly adhere to these principles and align their internal policies accordingly.
