Composite Allowance for Substitute GDS Performing BPM Duties — New Guidelines Issued (27 November 2025)
Introduction
The Department of Posts has released an important Office Memorandum dated 27 November 2025 regarding the payment of Composite Allowance to substitute GDS and other GDS employees (ABPM/Dak Sevak) who perform Branch Postmaster (BPM) duties during the absence of the regular BPM.
This update removes a long-pending disparity and ensures fair compensation for those handling BPM responsibilities.
Background
Until now, Composite Allowance was paid only to regular BPMs.
However, when BPMs were absent—due to leave, vacancy, being put off duty, or any other reason—the GDS substitutes or ABPMs performing BPM duties did not receive this allowance, even though they carried out the same responsibilities.
To address this, the Department of Posts has now approved a clear and fair payment structure.
New Rules for Composite Allowance Payment
The Office Memorandum introduces two major guidelines:
1. When the Regular BPM Works for Any Part of the Month
If a regular BPM performs duty for even one day in a month:
- The full Composite Allowance will be paid only to the regular BPM.
- Substitute GDS/ABPM/Dak Sevak performing BPM duties will not receive the allowance for that month.
This ensures that the allowance remains tied to the BPM post when the regular incumbent is present.
2. When the BPM Is Absent for the Entire Month
If the BPM does not work at all during the month due to:
- Paid leave
- LWA
- Unauthorized absence
- Being put off duty
- Vacancy or any other reason
Then:
- The substitute GDS/ABPM/Dak Sevak performing BPM duties (including combination duties) will receive the Composite Allowance on a pro-rata basis.
- The regular BPM will not receive the allowance in such cases.
This ensures fairness and compensates those who actually shoulder BPM responsibilities throughout the month.
Effective Approval
The decision has been taken with the approval of the competent authority and is officially issued by:
Gurvinder Singh
Assistant Director General (GDS)
Department of Posts