UPSC Examination Duty Circular - DDG Mail Operations dated 02/04/2026

Official Communications on UPSC Examination Duty

Context

• Department of Posts noticed inconsistent and inflated claims for Overtime Allowance (OTA) and refreshment expenses.
• Excess manpower deployment at exam centers has led to unnecessary financial burden.

Key Instructions (02.04.2026)

• OTA claims allowed only when post offices function beyond normal working hours.
• Refreshment expenses and honorarium are not admissible.
• Manpower deployment must be rationalized and proportionate to exam centers.
• Claims must go through Circle Offices → Delhi Circle → UPSC (no direct submission).
• Strict compliance required; defaulting staff may face disciplinary action.

Reference to Earlier Guidelines (13.04.2023)

• UPSC highlighted disparity in claims.
• Exam duties are considered an extension of normal postal work.
• Only OTA is permissible, not honorarium or other allowances.

Supporting Documents

• DoPT Office Memoranda (1976 & 1991) – OTA rules and rates.
• DoP Letter (2020) – Operational staff eligible for OTA.
• Conditions for OTA:
  • Work beyond prescribed hours must be urgent and authorized.
  • Compensatory leave preferred over cash payment for holiday/Sunday duty.
  • OTA capped at one-third of monthly emoluments, max 50% in special cases.
  • Detailed eligibility rules for different staff categories.

Takeaway

The circular reinforces strict financial discipline: Only OTA is allowed, claims must follow proper channels, manpower deployment must be justified, and violations will invite disciplinary action.

Reference

• D.O. No. Mail-09/4/2025-D-DOP — Dated: 02.04.2026
• Letter No. 9-6/2006-D (UPSC)-Part(1) — Dated: 13.04.2023
• Letter No. PP-25/4/2020-PAP-DOP — Dated: 01.12.2022
• Letter No. 15011/2/E.II (B)/76 — Dated: 11.08.1976
• Office Memorandum No. 15012/3/86-Estt. (Allowance) — Dated: 19.03.1991
• Letter No. F.No.52-01/2018-PAP — Dated: 08.07.2020

Download UPSC Exam Duty Guidelines in PDF