GDS Rule 3 Transfer Now Online: New SOP Released Under APT 2.0 by India Post (2025)
Online Process Introduced for GDS Transfers Under APT 2.0 – New SOP Issued
This development marks a significant step toward full digitalization and transparency in the management of GDS transfer processes, eliminating manual intervention and standardizing procedures across postal circles.
The new system, effective from the Rule-3 Transfer Cycle of October/November 2025, also enables GDS to submit transfer cancellation requests online within the stipulated period.
Key Highlights of the Order
A detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been circulated to all Circles and CEPT units. The SOP governs the relieving and joining process of GDSs for both On-Request and Mutual Transfers, with specific instructions for special scenarios.
The SOP covers the following major aspects:
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Online Joining & Relieving:All approvals, relieving, and joining reports of GDS transfers are now to be generated and uploaded digitally through the APT 2.0 portal.
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Cancellation Requests:GDSs can submit cancellation requests within 5 days after the release of the approved transfer list. No request will be entertained after this window.
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Female GDS on Maternity Leave:Female GDSs on maternity leave at the time of transfer will be marked as “deemed relieved under maternity leave.” They will be physically relieved only after returning from leave, and TRCA will continue from the old unit until joining the new post.
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Handling of Special Cases:
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Disciplinary or vigilance cases initiated after transfer approval will be intimated to the new unit.
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Mutual transfers affected by resignation, promotion, or dismissal of one GDS will continue for the counterpart, except in cases of death (where compassionate engagement applies).
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If either GDS in a mutual transfer passes away, the transfer of the counterpart will automatically stand cancelled.
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Joining Time and Leave:The GDS must join the new post within 5 days of relieving. The gap period will be treated as paid leave or leave without allowance, and any delay beyond 5 days will be treated as a break in service unless condoned by the competent authority.
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Elimination of Past Work Verification:The SOP clarifies that no past work verification is required before relieving a GDS, and any delay could affect seniority.
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Data and Record Transfer:The previous division must send the personal file and relieving report to the new division within 30 days, and data will automatically transfer through HRMS integration for correct TRCA processing.
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No TA/DA Payable:GDSs availing transfer under Rule-3 (On-Request or Mutual) will not be entitled to TA/DA.
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Eligibility Scrutiny:Divisional/Unit heads are instructed to thoroughly verify qualifications and service records before recommending transfer cases.The system will prevent applications for BPM posts if the GDS is not 10th-class qualified.
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Error Correction Provision:CEPT will provide a system-based option for Circle offices to rectify errors in relieving or joining updates when reported.
Standardized Digital Formats
To ensure uniformity, CEPT has introduced standard formats for:
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Relieving Orders (Annexure-I)
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Joining Orders (Annexure-II)
These system-generated reports will be downloadable and automatically shared with all concerned officers, DDOs, and the GDS through the APT 2.0 portal and HRMS module.
Implementation and Monitoring
The circular instructs all Chief Postmasters General, Divisional/Sub-Divisional Heads, and CEPT Units to:
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Publicize the new SOP among all GDS and field units.
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Ensure strict adherence to the prescribed procedure.
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Monitor transfer-related activities at the Circle level to maintain accuracy and transparency.
CEPT Bengaluru and CEPT Hyderabad have been directed to make the necessary provisions in the Rule-3 Transfer Portal and to upload the SOP on the GDS Rule-3 Portal for reference.
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