Aviansh Azad
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, the government has set the record straight on departmental promotions within the Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC). Responding to queries raised by MLA Muzaffar Iqbal Khan, the administration confirmed that promotions have been granted across various categories since 2010.
In a detailed response, the government stated that promotions and higher-grade releases have been provided not only to Engineers and AGM (Finance) but also to Chief Geologists, Company Secretaries, Geological Assistants, Technicians, Finance Assistants, and Computer Operators.
Dismissing allegations of neglecting certain categories, the government emphasized that no category of employees has been overlooked in the promotion process. However, it acknowledged that the promotion of Finance Assistants to Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) level was discussed in the DPC meeting held on August 5 and 9, 2024.
Due to a mismatch between the Finance Department rules and JKSPDC’s adopted criteria, the Board of Directors (BoDs) is considering a proposal to waive the requirement of SAC-I and SAC-II exams for such promotions.
For Computer Operators, the government clarified that there is no sanctioned higher post in the next pay level (L-5) under the current structure. However, recognizing the unique corporate nature of JKSPDC, new recruitment rules are being finalized to establish clear career progression pathways for all cadres, including Computer Operators.
Additionally, promotions for Junior Assistants and Senior Assistants will be initiated soon against vacant quota posts, following the J&K Subordinate Service Recruitment Rules (SRO 381 of 1981). The government assured that no discrimination has occurred against non-gazetted employees in the past and will not happen in the future. It reaffirmed that promotions for eligible employees under existing recruitment rules will be processed and concluded shortly, ensuring fair career advancement opportunities across all categories.
