Lucknow: To streamline administrative functioning and prevent prolonged postings at a single location, the state cabinet on Monday approved the transfer policy for 2026-27, introducing clear tenure rules, caps on transfers and a more structured approval process.The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by chief minister Yogi Adityanath, with the govt announcing that the policy will come into immediate effect. Transfers across departments are to be completed by May 31, officials said.Under the new policy, Group A and B officers who have completed three years in a district or seven years within a division will be eligible for transfer. However, the period spent in postings at headquarters or divisional offices will not be counted towards this tenure. Such postings will, however, be capped at a maximum of three years, with priority likely to be given to shifting those who have served the longest.The policy also prescribes limits on the number of transfers to ensure administrative stability. While up to 20% of the sanctioned strength in Group A and B categories can be transferred, the ceiling for Group C and D employees has been fixed at 10%.In a significant change, the authority to decide transfers will rest jointly with department heads and the ministers concerned. In certain cases, approval from the chief minister will also be required, adding an additional layer of oversight.The govt has emphasised the adoption of a merit-based online transfer system to enhance transparency and reduce discretion in postings. Provisions have been made for compassionate considerations, including the posting of employees with disabled dependants at locations with adequate medical facilities.Officials added that the policy also seeks to rationalise staff deployment in aspirational districts and identified development blocks.
