Second Cadre Review of IP&TAFS Group ‘A’ – Key Changes, New Structure & Reporting Reforms
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, has issued an important order dated 24 November 2025 regarding the Second Cadre Review of the Indian Posts & Telecommunications Accounts and Finance Service Group ‘A’ (IP&TAFS Gr. ‘A’).
This cadre review implements the Cabinet-approved restructuring of posts, strengthens senior leadership positions, and introduces major changes in reporting systems within the department.
This article explains all major updates in a simple and clear manner.
1. Overview of the Cadre Review
The President has approved the creation, reduction, and reorganization of posts at various levels of IP&TAFS Group ‘A’.
The key objectives of this review are:
- Strengthening senior administrative capacity
- Optimizing cadre size
- Improving financial governance in DoT
- Streamlining reporting relationships at the top levels
2. Key Changes in Sanctioned Strength
2.1 Major Post Revisions
The following modifications have been sanctioned:
- HAG posts increased from 8 to 15 (+7 posts)
- SAG posts reduced from 55 to 54
- STS posts reduced from 86 to 66
- A mid-term review will be undertaken when 80% of these posts are filled, to assess the need for restoring the previous strength.
2.2 Revised Cadre Structure
Below is the updated cadre composition of IP&TAFS Group ‘A’:
| Sl. No. | Grade | Existing Strength | Revised Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apex Scale (Level 17) | 01 | 01 |
| 2 | HAG+ (Level 16) | 02 | 02 |
| 3 | HAG (Level 15) | 08 | 15 |
| 4 | SAG (Level 14) | 55 | 54 |
| 5 | JAG / NFSG (Level 12/13) | 90 | 81 |
| 6 | STS (Level 11) | 86 | 66 |
| Senior Duty Posts (SDPs) | 242 | 219 | |
| 7 | JTS (Level 10) | 88 | 88 |
| Total Duty Posts | 330 | 307 | |
| 8 | Reserves | 46 | 46 |
| Total Cadre Strength | 376 | 353 |
Additional Notes:
- The NFSG ceiling remains 30% of SDPs.
- Probationary, Leave, and Training Reserve will be managed within the 88 JTS posts.
- The 46 reserve posts may be used for deputation.
3. Updated Reporting Structure
The order introduces clear and strengthened reporting lines at senior levels to ensure better accountability and financial oversight.
3.1 CGCA to Report Directly to Secretary (Telecom)
The Controller General of Communication Accounts (CGCA)—the senior-most IP&TAFS officer—will now report directly to the Secretary, DoT.
3.2 Changes for DDG (E&T)
DDG (E&T) will:
- Report directly to Secretary (Telecom)
- Route all cadre-related files of IP&TAFS Group ‘A’ through the CGCA
3.3 Creation of a New Financial Advisor (Telecom) Position
One HAG post has been designated as Financial Advisor (Telecom) or FA (Telecom).
The FA (Telecom):
- Will directly advise Secretary (Telecom) and Secretary (Expenditure)
- Must follow Secretary (Expenditure)’s instructions in case of conflicting directions
- Will handle major financial matters under the FA Charter
3.4 Reporting to FA (Telecom)
The following officers will report to FA (Telecom):
- DDG (Finance & FIPP)
- DDG (Budget)
Additionally, all financial advisory files requiring approval of the Secretary (Telecom) must be routed through FA (Telecom).
4. Interim Arrangement
Until further orders:
- Shri Awadhesh Kumar, Additional CGCA, will function as FA (Telecom).
- During this period, he will perform only FA-related functions and no executive duties.
Conclusion
The Second Cadre Review of IP&TAFS Group ‘A’ marks a significant structural modernization aimed at strengthening financial governance, streamlining reporting lines, and enhancing senior management roles within the Department of Telecommunications.
These changes are expected to improve efficiency, decision-making, and service management across the communications sector.