FNPO Proposes Entry-Level Pay Upgrade to Level-5 (GP ₹2800) for Postal Employees
FNPO Leader Proposes Entry Pay Upgrade to Level-5 (GP ₹2800) and New Promotion Structure for General Line Cadre
New Delhi: A proposal seeking major reforms in the promotional structure of the General Line Cadre in the Department of Posts has been submitted by the National Association of Postal Employees (NAPE), Group 'C', Rajasthan Circle, to the Secretary General, FNPO. The proposal calls for an upgrade of the entry-level pay to Pay Level-5 (Grade Pay ₹2800) and the introduction of a structured, examination-based promotional hierarchy for postal employees.
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According to the proposal, the existing promotional system based largely on seniority and the Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) Scheme has become stagnant and is affecting employee motivation, career growth, and operational efficiency. The association states that many employees receive LSG, HSG-II, and HSG-I grades only after long years of service, making the promotional ladder less meaningful.
The association has highlighted the need for parity with other Central Government departments, pointing out that promotional opportunities and entry-level pay in many departments are more progressive. It has also expressed concern that the lack of competitive career growth is encouraging talented and young recruits to seek opportunities outside the Department of Posts.
To address these issues, the proposal recommends a Postmaster Scale-based promotional hierarchy as follows:
- After 5 years of service: Postmaster Scale-I – Pay Level-6 (GP ₹4200)
- After 10 years of service: Postmaster Scale-II – Pay Level-7 (GP ₹4600)
- After 15 years of service: Postmaster Scale-III – Pay Level-8 (GP ₹4800)
- After 20 years of service: Postmaster Scale-IV – Pay Level-9 (GP ₹5400)
The proposal also strongly advocates upgrading the entry-level pay to Pay Level-5 (Grade Pay ₹2800). It argues that recruitment through SSC Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) now requires a graduate qualification and that postal employees today handle a wide range of banking operations, financial services, and complex customer transactions. Therefore, the current entry-level pay no longer reflects the responsibilities entrusted to them.
The association believes that these reforms would not only improve employee morale and career progression but also strengthen customer service, enhance public trust, and contribute to the long-term administrative efficiency of the Department of Posts. It has requested the Secretary General, FNPO to take up the proposal with the Postal Directorate for further consideration.
It is important to note that this is a proposal submitted by the association and not an approved decision of the Department of Posts. Any changes to the pay structure or promotional hierarchy will depend on the consideration and approval of the competent authority.
Keywords: FNPO, NAPE, General Line Cadre, Pay Level 5, Grade Pay ₹2800, Postal Employees, Department of Posts, Promotion Policy, SSC CGL, India Post News.