Railway Board SOP Compliance: Key Highlights of the Latest 2025 Circular
The Railway Board has issued an important reminder to all Railway Units regarding strict compliance with existing policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This directive, released on 12 November 2025, emphasizes that several audit observations have pointed out lapses in following prescribed procedures across certain units.
This latest communication reinforces the importance of discipline, transparency, and accountability in day-to-day administrative and operational processes across Indian Railways.
Why the Railway Board Reiterated SOP Compliance
Recent audits have revealed that in some cases the instructions laid down in the existing Policy/SOP are not being adhered to. Such gaps can lead to operational delays, administrative errors, and audit objections — all of which affect the efficiency and credibility of the system.
To prevent this, the Railway Board has urged all units to ensure that every action taken is aligned with officially prescribed guidelines.
Key Instructions Issued in the Circular
1. Strict Adherence to Policy and SOP
All Railway Units — including Zonal Railways, Production Units, RDSO, and specialized organizations like CORE, PLW, RWP, COFMOW, and WPO — must follow the issued Policy and SOP without deviation.
This applies to all administrative, procurement, operational, and technical procedures.
2. Deviations Must Be Justified and Approved
If any deviation from the established SOP becomes unavoidable:
- It must be properly justified,
- Documented with full reasons, and
- Placed before the competent authority for approval.
This ensures transparency and prevents unauthorized decisions.
Who Issued the Circular?
The reminder has been issued by:
Ajay Kumar
Dy. Director Railway Stores (G), Railway Board
Email: ddrsg1[at]rb.railnet.gov.in
Tele: 011-23047529
The communication has been digitally signed and circulated to all major Railway units for immediate compliance.
Why This Matters for Railway Personnel
This circular reinforces the significance of:
- Following standardized processes
- Maintaining audit-ready documentation
- Ensuring accountability in decision-making
- Avoiding procedural lapses that may lead to audit objections
SOP compliance is not just a formality — it is integral to maintaining efficiency and transparency within one of India’s largest government organizations.