Revamp in Recruitment Rules for Scientists in Central Ground Water Board

New Delhi, June 30 (PTI) — The Ministry of Jal Shakti is set to initiate a major revamp in recruitment and promotion rules for Group A scientists within the Central Ground Water Board. This proposed overhaul introduces a structured promotion path featuring mandatory field experience, a two-tiered performance assessment system, and new training prerequisites.

The draft rules, which range from posts at the Scientist B level to Scientist G, have been released for public feedback, with stakeholders expected to submit their comments by July 13.

The notification aligns these criteria with the Revised Flexible Complementing Scheme recently introduced by the Department of Personnel and Training in 2024.

Promotion requirements are defined by a mandatory minimum service duration—three years for Scientists at the C level, climbing to five years at senior grades like Scientist F and G. Additionally, field experience is obligatory—two years for promotion to Scientist F and five years for Scientist G.

A cornerstone of the revised guidelines is the two-tier assessment system, where scientists first face a Level-1 screening by an Internal Screening Committee. This is followed by a Level-2 assessment carried out by either an Assessment Board or a Department Peer Review Committee.

These evaluations will take place biannually, every January and July. Those who fail to qualify may only be reassessed after a year, and will need to file an additional Annual Performance Appraisal Report.

Training also plays a crucial role. Direct recruits must complete a mandatory one-year Induction Level Training Course. Meanwhile, internally promoted officers are obliged to complete two weeks of training in management and leadership at institutions like the Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research Institute or the Institute of Secretariat Training and Management.

According to the draft, promotions under the Revised Flexible Complementing Scheme will be limited to three attempts. If unsuccessful, candidates will transition to the Modified Assured Career Progression scheme applicable to other Central government employees.

Moreover, no retrospective promotions will be permitted. Officers absent due to deputation or leave will only receive promotions upon their return.

The proposed guidelines also specify the total number of scientific posts by discipline: 294 in Hydrogeology, 31 in Geophysics, 32 in Chemistry, eight in Hydrology, and nine in Hydrometeorology, subject to adjustments based on workload. Typically, vacancies from retirement, resignation, or death will be filled at the entry level, except in the Hydrology field, where entry is at the Scientist C level.

Educational qualifications and age limits have been clearly outlined, with eligibility relaxations available for government employees and individuals from scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other reserved segments. Direct recruitment to these positions will be facilitated through the UPSC's Combined Geo-Scientist Examination. All appointments will entail a potential transfer and service assignments across India or abroad.

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