Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has approved a new transfer policy for government employees, aiming to enhance transparency and administrative balance across departments. The decision was taken in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, with the policy coming into effect across the state from May 5, 2026.
Cap on Transfers to Ensure Stability
Under the new policy, transfers in any department will be limited to a maximum of 10 percent of the total sanctioned posts, ensuring stability in administration while preventing excessive reshuffling.
The government has also introduced a joint decision-making mechanism, where department heads and concerned ministers will collectively approve transfers, bringing greater accountability to the process.
Fixed Timeline for Implementation
The policy will remain in force for the financial year 2026–27, with May 31, 2026, set as the deadline for completing all transfers. Officials stated that this time-bound approach will help streamline administrative functioning.
Criteria for Transfers
As per the guidelines:

- Group ‘A’ and ‘B’ officers who have completed three years in a district or seven years in a division will be eligible for transfer.
- Long-serving officials will be prioritised to ensure balanced postings across regions.
- Tenure served in departmental headquarters or divisional offices will not be counted towards transfer eligibility.
- The maximum tenure at divisional offices has been capped at three years.
Focus on Efficiency and Transparency
The state government said the policy is designed to improve efficiency and ensure equitable deployment of personnel across Uttar Pradesh. By limiting transfers and setting clear criteria, the administration aims to maintain continuity in governance while addressing staffing imbalances.
Officials believe the new transfer policy will bring more predictability and fairness to the system, benefiting both employees and public service delivery.
With the policy now in force, departments across the state are expected to initiate the transfer process in line with the new guidelines.

