Recruitment in Central Government services is governed not only by general methods like direct entry or promotion but also by nuanced provisions designed for unique structural scenarios. Among these, the composite method of recruitment, UPSC consultation procedures, and direct recruitment to another post are critical yet often misunderstood aspects.
This article, the third in our ongoing series on recruitment frameworks, clarifies these provisions in line with DoPT guidelines, UPSC regulations, and long-standing civil service practices.
📌 If you missed the previous parts, read them here first for better understanding:
🔹 Composite Method of Recruitment: A Balanced Approach
In many departments, particularly where the feeder grade includes only one post, standard promotion mechanisms may not offer sufficient competition. To address this, the composite method is adopted. This method allows the post to be filled through:
“Deputation (including short-term contract)/Promotion”
Under this system:
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If the eligible departmental officer is selected, the appointment is treated as promotion.
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If an outsider is selected, the post is filled on deputation or short-term contract for a fixed term.
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After the deputation period ends, the departmental officer is given another opportunity to be considered for promotion.
This method ensures that internal talent is not overlooked, while still keeping the field open to qualified external candidates.
The eligibility pool for such appointments usually includes:
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Officers holding analogous posts on a regular basis.
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Officers from the next lower grade, with required regular qualifying service as prescribed for promotion.
Such flexibility makes the composite method a crucial tool for staffing isolated or single-post hierarchies.
🔹 UPSC Consultation: When Is It Mandatory?
As a constitutional body under Article 320, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) plays an advisory role in Central Government appointments. According to DoPT rules, consultation with UPSC is mandatory for recruitment to almost all Group ‘A’ and Group ‘B’ posts, unless an exemption has been granted.
The exemptions are governed by the UPSC (Exemption from Consultation) Regulations, 1958, and apply to specific types of posts or under particular conditions such as:
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Temporary appointments not exceeding one year
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Posts in certain autonomous or scientific institutions
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Re-employment of pensioners in a limited capacity
Departments must carefully verify whether UPSC consultation is required before finalizing the recruitment process, especially while amending Recruitment Rules.
🔗 You can access the latest UPSC Exemption Regulations here
🔹 Direct Recruitment to Another Post: What If You Switch Departments?
Suppose a Government servant, already confirmed in one department, is selected for a completely different post in either the same or another department through direct recruitment. What happens to their status?
As per current DoPT practice, such appointments are treated independently, even if the person was holding their earlier post on a substantive basis. This means:
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The officer must be considered for confirmation in the new post.
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Confirmation is not automatic, especially if the new post differs in discipline, pay level, or responsibilities.
This ensures that each post is filled in line with specific Recruitment Rules and suitability standards, without assumptions based on previous appointments.
✅ This is particularly relevant when moving from administrative roles to specialized or technical positions across departments.