APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026, Detailed Notification (Out) for 720 [Updated] Posts, Apply Online from 10 November 2026

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 – Notification Out for 720 Posts, Apply Online from 10 November 2026. The Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) has released Brief Notification No. 37/2026 on 10th November 2026 for direct recruitment to Group-II Services. The notification covers 12 categories of posts, including Deputy Tahsildar, Municipal Commissioner Grade-III, Goods and Service Tax Officer, Sub-Registrar Grade-II and Assistant Section Officer. In total, 720 provisional vacancies have been announced for this APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026. APPSC Group 2 Notification 2026 Out: 720 Vacancies, Eligibility, Syllabus, Exam Date and Apply Online (Notification No. 37/2026)

Eligible candidates can submit their applications online through the Commission's website, psc.ap.gov.in, from 10 November 2026 to 30 November 2026 up to 11:59 PM. The Detailed Notification, which will carry the age limit, community-wise vacancy break-up and other instructions, will be uploaded on or before 10 November 2026. Read this article for vacancies, eligibility, pay scales, exam pattern, syllabus, dates and the application process.

APPSC Group 2 Notification 2026 Out: 720 Vacancies, Eligibility, Syllabus, Exam Date and Apply Online (Notification No. 37/2026)

The Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) has released Notification No. 37/2026 dated 10 November 2026 for direct recruitment to various posts under Group-II Services. A total of 720 vacancies have been announced, including 471 Executive posts such as Deputy Tahsildar, Deputy MPDO, GST Officer and Prohibition & Excise Sub-Inspector, and 249 Non-Executive posts such as Assistant Section Officer, Senior Accountant, Junior Accountant and Junior Office Assistant.

Eligible candidates can apply online from 10 November 2026 to 11 December 2026 (up to 11:59 PM). The Screening Test (OMR based) is scheduled for 21 February 2027, while the date of the Main Examination (Computer Based) will be announced later. This guide covers the vacancies, qualifications, age limits, salary, fee, selection process, syllabus and the step-by-step application process, all based on the official notification.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Overview

Organization	Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC), Vijayawada
Notification Number	37/2026, dated 10/11/2026
Recruitment Name	Direct Recruitment to various posts under Group-II Services (General Recruitment / Limited Recruitment)
Total Vacancies	720 (Executive: 471, Non-Executive: 249)
Apply Mode	Online only (through the Commission's website, after OTPR registration)
Job Location	Andhra Pradesh (Zonal, District and State cadre posts)
Application Start Date	10 November 2026
Last Date to Apply	11 December 2026, 11:59 PM
Screening Test Date	21 February 2027 (OMR based, offline)
Main Exam Date	To be announced later (Computer Based Recruitment Test)
Age Limit	18/20/21 to 30/44 years as on 01-07-2026 (post-wise)
Application Fee	Rs. 250 processing fee + Rs. 80 examination fee (exemptions apply)
Official Website	https://psc.ap.gov.in

About APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026

Group-II is one of the most sought-after recruitment drives in Andhra Pradesh because it fills both Executive posts, which carry field and administrative responsibility, and Non-Executive posts in the Secretariat, Treasuries and various Commissionerates. The notification covers 30 post codes in total.

A few vacancies are carried forward (CF) from earlier recruitments. As per the notification, selection against these reserved carried-forward vacancies will be made before the fresh vacancies. The number of vacancies and departments may change if the concerned department informs the Commission, and any addition will be accepted only before the Screening Test, with an addendum being issued.

APPSC Group 2 Vacancy Details 2026

Executive Posts (471 vacancies)

Post Code	Name of the Post & Department	Vacancies
01	Municipal Commissioner Grade-III, A.P. Municipal Commissioners Sub-Ordinate Service	06
02	Deputy Mandal Parishad Development Officer, A.P. Panchayat Raj & Rural Development Service	176
03	Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies, A.P. Cooperative Sub-Service	10
04	Deputy Tahsildar, A.P. Revenue Service	203 (incl. 01 CF)
05	Sub-Registrar Grade-II, A.P. Registrations Service	07
06	Goods and Service Tax Officer, A.P. State (Commercial Tax) Service	40
07	Prohibition and Excise Sub-Inspector, A.P. Prohibition & Excise Sub-Service	29 (incl. 02 CF)
Total Executive		471

Non-Executive Posts (249 vacancies)

Post Code	Name of the Post & Department	Vacancies
08	Assistant Section Officer (GAD), A.P. Secretariat Sub-Service	71 (incl. 05 CF)
09	Assistant Section Officer (Finance Dept.), A.P. Secretariat Sub-Service	05
10	Assistant Section Officer (Law Dept.), A.P. Secretariat Sub-Service	04 (incl. 01 CF)
11	Senior Accountant, A.P. Treasuries and Accounts Sub-Service (HODs)	90
12	Senior Accountant, A.P. Treasuries and Accounts Sub-Service (Districts)	01
13	Junior Accountant in various Departments, A.P. Treasuries and Accounts Sub-Service (HODs)	47
14	Junior Office Assistant, Commissionerate of Industries	02 (incl. 01 CF)
15	Junior Office Assistant, A.P. Public Health and Family Welfare Dept.	03 (incl. 02 CF)
16	Junior Office Assistant, Director of Animal Husbandry	01
17	Junior Office Assistant, DG Prisons & Correctional Services	01 CF
18	Junior Office Assistant, O/o Advocate General of A.P.	01
19	Junior Office Assistant, Engineer-in-Chief, R&B Department	01 CF
20	Junior Office Assistant, Directorate of Government Examinations	05 (incl. 04 CF)
21	Junior Office Assistant, Commissioner of Civil Supplies	03 (incl. 02 CF)
22	Junior Office Assistant, Director of Insurance & Medical Services	02 (incl. 01 CF)
23	Junior Office Assistant, A.P. Economics and Statistics Department	03 CF
24	Junior Office Assistant, Director of Prosecutions	01
25	Junior Office Assistant, Director of Boilers	01 CF
26	Junior Office Assistant, A.P. Public Health & Municipal Engineering Dept.	01 CF
27	Junior Office Assistant, Commissioner of School Education	02 CF
28	Junior Office Assistant, Commissioner of Higher Education (TE)	01
29	Junior Office Assistant, Director of Agriculture	02 (incl. 01 CF)
30	Junior Office Assistant, Commissioner and Director of Municipal Administration	01 CF
Total Non-Executive		249
Grand Total		720

The community-wise, zone-wise and horizontal reservation (Women, PBD, Sports) break-up is given in Annexure-I of the official notification. Please check it for the post you are targeting.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Educational Qualification

Candidates must hold the prescribed qualification from a recognised university as on the date of the detailed notification (10-11-2026). This date is also the cut-off for counting experience.

Post Code	Qualification
01, 02, 03, 04, 06, 07, 08, 14 to 30	A Bachelor's Degree (in any discipline) from a recognised university in India or an institution recognised by the UGC, or an equivalent qualification
05 (Sub-Registrar Gr-II)	A Degree from a recognised university. Preference is given to candidates who also hold a Degree in Law
09 (ASO, Finance)	Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics, Economics or Commerce
10 (ASO, Law)	Bachelor's Degree in Law
11 and 12 (Senior Accountant)	Degree in Commerce, Economics or Mathematics, and a computer qualification: a certificate course (Office Automation, PC Maintenance and Trouble Shooting, or Web Designing) from the A.P. Board of Technical Education and Training, or a degree such as BCA, B.Sc/B.Com/B.A (Computers) or B.Tech/B.E in Computer Science or IT
13 (Junior Accountant)	A Degree, preferably in Commerce, Mathematics or Economics, and the same computer qualification as for Senior Accountant

• Degrees from Open Universities or Distance Education must be recognised by the Distance Education Council, Government of India. B.Tech/B.E degrees through distance mode are accepted only if approved by AICTE.
• If you hold a qualification that is "equivalent" to the one prescribed, you must send a copy of the relevant Government Order to the Commission within 10 days of the last date for applications. Otherwise the application will be rejected.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Age Limit and Relaxations

The age is calculated as on 01-07-2026.

Post Code	Age Limit (Min-Max)
01 (Municipal Commissioner Gr-III)	21 - 44 years
02, 03, 04, 06, 08 to 30	18 - 44 years
05 (Sub-Registrar Gr-II)	20 - 44 years
07 (Prohibition & Excise SI)	18 - 30 years

Age relaxation as listed in the notification:

Category	Relaxation
SC, ST, BC and EWS	5 years
SC/ST for Carried Forward (Limited) vacancies	10 years
Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PBD)	10 years
Ex-Servicemen / Personnel	3 years plus the length of service rendered in the armed forces
NCC (who worked as Instructor)	3 years plus the length of service rendered in NCC
Regular A.P. State Government employees (employees of Corporations, Municipalities etc. are not eligible)	Length of regular State Government service, up to a maximum of 5 years
Retrenched temporary employees of the State Census Department (minimum 6 months service)	3 years
Widows, divorced and judicially separated women (not remarried) - SC/ST, for Junior Assistant posts	Upper age limit 50 years (General Recruitment) / 55 years (Limited Recruitment)
Widows, divorced and judicially separated women (not remarried) - other than SC/ST, for Junior Assistant posts	Upper age limit 45 years

SC/ST candidates who avail the 10-year relaxation are not eligible for SC/ST fresh vacancies. Ex-Servicemen and NCC relaxation cannot take a candidate beyond the maximum age prescribed for the post.

Physical Standards for Prohibition and Excise Sub-Inspector (Post Code 07)

• Men: Minimum height 165 cm and chest 81 cm (on full expiration) with at least 5 cm expansion. For ST candidates the height may be relaxed to 160 cm where the quota cannot be filled.
• Women: Minimum height 152.5 cm and minimum weight 45.5 kg.
• Vision: Near vision 0.5 (Snellen) and distant vision 6/6 in each eye, with full field of vision. Colour blindness, squint, knock knees, flat foot and certain other conditions are treated as disqualifications.
• Persons with Benchmark Disabilities reservation is not available for this post.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Salary Details (Scale of Pay)

Post Code	Post	Scale of Pay (Rs.)
01, 02, 03	Municipal Commissioner Gr-III, Deputy MPDO, Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies	45,830 - 1,30,580
04, 05, 06	Deputy Tahsildar, Sub-Registrar Gr-II, GST Officer	44,570 - 1,27,480
07, 08, 09, 10	Prohibition & Excise SI, Assistant Section Officers	40,970 - 1,24,380
11, 12	Senior Accountant	34,580 - 1,07,210
13 to 30	Junior Accountant, Junior Office Assistant	25,220 - 80,910

The notification gives only the pay scales. Allowances and other benefits are Not Mentioned in the Official Notification.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Reservations and Local Candidate Rules

• Vertical reservation applies for SC, ST, BC and EWS. Horizontal reservation applies for Women (33 1/3%), Persons with Benchmark Disabilities, Meritorious Sports Persons (3%) and Ex-Servicemen (2%, Non-Executive posts only).
• BC candidates need a Non-Creamy Layer certificate issued on or after 01-04-2026. EWS candidates need an income certificate for FY 2025-26 issued on or after 01-04-2026 (family income below Rs. 8 lakh).
• Local reservation applies to Post Codes 01 to 07 and 12. Post Codes 08 to 11 and 13 to 30 are State cadre posts, so local reservation does not apply.
• Post Codes 01 to 07 are zonal posts, and Post Code 12 is a district cadre post. Candidates from other states are not entitled to local reservation or to reservation benefits.
• A local candidate is generally one who studied for at least four consecutive years up to Class 7 in that local area. If a candidate did not study in any institution during this period, a residence certificate is accepted.

Zones: Zone-I (Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli); Zone-II (Alluri Sitarama Raju, East Godavari, Kakinada, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema); Zone-III (West Godavari, Eluru, NTR, Krishna); Zone-IV (Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Prakasam, SPSR Nellore); Zone-V (Tirupati, Chittoor, Annamayya, YSR Kadapa); Zone-VI (Nandyal, Anantapuramu, Kurnool, Sri Sathya Sai).

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Application Fee

Fee Component	Amount
Application Processing Fee	Rs. 250
Examination Fee	Rs. 80

• Exempted from the Rs. 80 examination fee: SC, ST, BC, PBD and Ex-Servicemen/Personnel; families holding a Household Supply White Card of A.P.; and unemployed youth as per G.O.Ms.No.439 (a declaration must be submitted to the Commission at the appropriate time).
• Candidates from other states have to pay both fees and cannot claim exemption (except PBD and Ex-Servicemen).
• Payment is online through Net Banking, Credit Card or Debit Card. IPOs and Demand Drafts are not accepted.
• Fee once paid is not refunded or adjusted under any circumstances.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Selection Process

1. Screening Test: One objective paper (General Studies and Mental Ability), conducted offline on OMR sheets. It is meant to shortlist candidates for the Main Examination.
2. Main Examination: Two objective papers, conducted as a Computer Based Recruitment Test (CBRT). Candidates admitted to the Main Exam will be 50 times the number of vacancies, irrespective of community.
3. Computer Proficiency Test (CPT): Candidates provisionally shortlisted after the Main Exam must qualify the practical CPT.
4. Certificate verification and medical fitness: Final selection depends on merit in the Main Examination, a pass in the CPT, verification of documents and medical fitness.

Minimum qualifying marks (aggregate): OC and EWS 40%, Backward Classes 35%, SC/ST/PBD 30%. Securing the minimum marks does not by itself guarantee selection. There will be no waiting list. Post and zone/district preferences are taken online before the Main Exam and again at certificate verification, where the preference is final.

The Commission may normalise scores if the computer-based test is held in multiple sessions. A wrong answer carries a penalty of one-third of the marks for that question.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Exam Pattern

Screening Test (Degree standard, objective type)

Paper	Subject	Questions	Duration	Marks
Screening	General Studies & Mental Ability	150	150 minutes	150

Main Examination (Degree standard, objective type)

Paper	Subjects	Questions	Duration	Marks
Paper I	Social and Cultural History of Andhra Pradesh (75 marks); General overview of the Indian Constitution (75 marks)	150	150 minutes	150
Paper II	Indian and A.P. Economy (75 marks); Science and Technology (75 marks)	150	150 minutes	150
Total				300

Computer Proficiency Test (practical): 60 minutes, 100 marks, covering office automation with computers and associated software. Minimum qualifying marks are 40 for OC, 35 for BC and 30 for SC/ST/PBD.

Screening Test Syllabus at a Glance

• Indian History (30 marks)
• Geography (30 marks)
• Indian Society (30 marks)
• Current Affairs: international, national and Andhra Pradesh (30 marks)
• Mental Ability: logical reasoning, number and letter series, coding-decoding, basic numeracy and data analysis (30 marks)

The question paper is set in English and translated into Telugu. The English version is treated as authentic for valuation. The detailed topic-wise syllabus for the Screening Test, Main Examination and CPT is available in Annexure-II of the notification PDF.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Important Dates

Event	Date
Notification Released	10 November 2026
Online Application Starts	10 November 2026
Last Date to Apply Online	11 December 2026 (11:59 PM)
Submission of Equivalent Qualification G.O. (if applicable)	Within 10 days of the last date
Application Corrections (Rs. 100 per correction)	Up to 7 days from the last date of application
Screening Test	21 February 2027
Main Examination	To be announced later
Hall Tickets	Will be hosted on the Commission's website

Examination Centres

The Screening Test and Main Examination will be held at all district centres: Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna, NTR, Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Prakasam, SPSR Nellore, Chittoor, Tirupati, Annamayya, YSR Kadapa, Sri Sathya Sai, Anantapuramu, Nandyal and Kurnool.

Candidates must give three centre preferences for each of the two exams, but the Commission may allot any centre depending on availability.

APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026 Required Documents

• Scanned photograph and signature in JPG format (compulsory at the time of application)
• Educational qualification certificates and mark memos (plus Distance Education Council recognition proof, if applicable)
• Date of birth proof (SSC or equivalent) and Community certificate issued by a Tahsildar or higher revenue authority
• Non-Creamy Layer certificate (BC) or EWS certificate (digital format), both issued on or after 01-04-2026
• Study certificates from Class 1 to 7, or a residence certificate where applicable, for local status
• Local Status Certificate for candidates who migrated from Telangana to A.P. between 02-06-2014 and 01-06-2024
• Disability, sports, ex-serviceman or other certificates, as per the category claimed
• White Ration Card or unemployed declaration, if claiming exemption from the examination fee

How to Apply Online for APPSC Group 2 Recruitment 2026

1. Visit the Commission's website (https://psc.ap.gov.in) or use the Apply Online link given in this article.
2. If you are applying to an APPSC notification for the first time, complete the One Time Profile Registration (OTPR) and note your OTPR ID. OTPR alone is not an application for any post.
3. Log in with your OTPR ID and password, click "Online Application Submission", and press "Fill Application" against Notification No. 37/2026.
4. Check the pre-filled OTPR data carefully, then fill in the application-specific details such as local/non-local status, qualification, post preferences and examination centres.
5. Click Save & Submit. Only this button generates the payment link. Clicking "Save" alone will not complete your application.
6. Pay the fee online. After successful payment a reference ID is generated, an SMS is sent to your registered mobile number, and you can download the filled application PDF.
7. If payment fails, start a fresh payment process. Keep the application PDF safe for future reference.

Corrections: Changes are allowed only after the last date and up to 7 days from it, on payment of Rs. 100 per correction. Name, fee and age relaxation fields cannot be changed. Candidates already in government service must also inform their Head of Office in writing that they have applied.

Apply Online Link

Important Links

Download Notification PDF	Click Here
Apply Online	Click Here
APPSC Official Website	https://psc.ap.gov.in

Download Notification PDF Apply Online Link

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many vacancies are there in APPSC Group 2 Notification 2026?
The notification announces 720 vacancies in total. Of these, 471 are Executive posts and 249 are Non-Executive posts. Some of them are carried forward vacancies, and the Commission may revise the numbers on receiving intimation from departments, with an addendum issued before the Screening Test.

2. What is the last date to apply for APPSC Group 2 2026?
The online application window runs from 10 November 2026 to 11 December 2026, up to 11:59 PM. Applications sent by any other mode, or after the deadline, will not be entertained, so it is wise to submit well before the final day to avoid website congestion.

3. When will the Screening Test be conducted?
The Screening Test is scheduled for 21 February 2027 and will be held offline using OMR answer sheets. The date for the Main Examination, which will be a computer based test, will be announced later on the Commission's website.

4. What is the educational qualification for Group 2 posts?
Most posts require a Bachelor's Degree in any discipline. Assistant Section Officer (Finance) needs Mathematics, Economics or Commerce, ASO (Law) needs a Law degree, and Senior and Junior Accountant posts need a Commerce-related degree plus a prescribed computer qualification.

5. What is the age limit for APPSC Group 2 2026?
Age is counted as on 1 July 2026. Most posts are 18 to 44 years, Municipal Commissioner Grade-III is 21 to 44, Sub-Registrar Grade-II is 20 to 44, and Prohibition and Excise Sub-Inspector is 18 to 30. Category-wise relaxations are given in the notification.

6. What is the application fee for Group 2?
Candidates pay Rs. 250 as processing fee and Rs. 80 as examination fee. SC, ST, BC, PBD, Ex-Servicemen, White Card holders of A.P. and eligible unemployed youth are exempt from the Rs. 80 examination fee. The fee is non-refundable.

7. What is the salary of a Deputy Tahsildar in this recruitment?
The notification lists the pay scale for Deputy Tahsildar as Rs. 44,570 to Rs. 1,27,480. Other benefits and allowances are not mentioned in the notification, so candidates should rely on government rules for those details.

8. What is the exam pattern for Group 2?
The Screening Test has one paper of 150 questions for 150 marks. The Main Exam has two papers of 150 questions each, carrying 300 marks in total. Both are objective type, and each wrong answer is penalised with one-third of the marks for that question.

9. Is there a Computer Proficiency Test for Group 2?
Yes. Shortlisted candidates after the Main Examination must qualify a practical Computer Proficiency Test of 60 minutes and 100 marks. The minimum qualifying marks are 40 for OC, 35 for BC and 30 for SC, ST and PBD candidates.

10. How many candidates will be called for the Main Examination?
The number of candidates admitted to the Main Examination will be 50 times the number of vacancies, irrespective of community. The Commission may also apply relaxed standards in the Screening Test for SC, ST, BC and physically challenged candidates if needed.

11. Does local reservation apply to all Group 2 posts?
No. Local reservation applies only to Post Codes 01 to 07 (zonal posts) and Post Code 12 (district cadre). Post Codes 08 to 11 and 13 to 30 are State cadre posts, where local reservation does not apply.

12. Can I make corrections after submitting the application?
Corrections are enabled only after the last date and for up to 7 days from it, at Rs. 100 per correction. Fields affecting name, fee and age relaxation cannot be changed, and no manual requests will be accepted.

13. Can candidates from other states apply?
Candidates from other states may apply but they are not entitled to local reservation or to SC, ST, BC or EWS reservation benefits. They must also pay the full Rs. 250 processing fee and Rs. 80 examination fee, unless they are PBD or Ex-Servicemen.

14. Is there a negative marking in the exam?
Yes. For each wrong answer, one-third of the marks prescribed for the question will be deducted. In the OMR-based Screening Test, double or multiple bubbled answers also attract negative marks instead of zero, so mark answers carefully.

15. In which language will the question paper be set?
The question paper is set in English and translated into Telugu. If any doubt arises, the English version is treated as the authentic version for valuation purposes.

Sum Up and Advice

The APPSC Group 2 Notification 2026 offers 720 vacancies across Executive and Non-Executive posts, with pay scales running from Rs. 25,220 up to Rs. 1,30,580. With the Screening Test fixed for 21 February 2027, aspirants have a little over two months after the application deadline to prepare.

Check your post code, age, qualification and local status carefully before applying, keep your community, NCL/EWS and study certificates ready, and remember to click "Save & Submit" so that your payment is completed. Apply early, avoid last-day rush, and keep visiting the official website for hall tickets and updates

SOP on School Bags Weight Management in AP Schools - 10% of Body Weight Rule, New Home Work Guidelines Rc.No.ESE02/564/2022-SCERT

SOP on School Bags Weight Management in AP Schools - 10% of Body Weight Rule, New Home Work Guidelines Rc.No.ESE02/564/2022-SCERT. The Ideal School Bag Weight SOP has been issued by the Director of School Education, Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati, through Rc.No.ESE02/564/2022-SCERT dated 10-11-2026, for implementing the School Bag Policy 2020 in all schools of the state. 

The proceedings, supported by the SCERT AP Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for School Bag Weight Management, explain the class-wise recommended school bag weight for Pre-primary to Class XII, the 10% of body weight rule, the No Bag Day every Saturday for Classes I to IX, the homework guidelines as per NEP 2020, and the roles of DEOs, MEOs, headmasters, teachers, parents and students in reducing the school bag burden. Read the complete text below and download the official AP school bag weight proceedings PDF.

📌 Overview & Summary of the Proceedings SOP on School Bags Weight Management

• Issued by: Smt. Thameem Ansariya A, IAS, Director of School Education, Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati.
• Proceedings: Rc.No.ESE02/564/2022-SCERT, Dated 10-11-2026 (Most Urgent).
• Subject: Reducing the weight of the school bag – guidelines and SOP for implementing the ideal school bag weight.
• Purpose: Excessive bag weight is a major concern for the health and learning of children. The School Bag Policy-2020 is to be implemented in all schools in the state.
• Key measures already taken: merged textbooks, semester system (Sem-1 June–October, Sem-2 November–March), subject-wise period allocation, and No Bag Day on every Saturday for Classes I to IX.
• Weight limit: bag weight must be not more than 10% of the child’s body weight. Recommended range is from 1.6 kg (Classes I–II) up to 5 kg (Classes XI–XII); no school bag for Pre-primary.
• Homework: none for Classes I–II; up to two hours a week for Classes III–V; up to one hour a day for Classes VI–VIII; up to two hours a day for Secondary and Higher Secondary.
• Monitoring: digital weighing machine in every school, monthly audit by the Head of Institution, School Bag Weight Register, and a District-level committee under the DEO.
• Action: RJDs and DEOs must circulate the guidelines and SOP to all managements and field functionaries and implement them in letter and spirit.

🏛️ Proceedings of the Director of School Education, Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati

Present: Smt Thameem Ansariya A, IAS
Rc.No.ESE02/564/2022-SCERT
Dated: 10-11-2026

Sub

School Education – SCERT – AP – Reducing weight of School Bag – Certain Guidelines and Standard Operation Procedures (SOP) for implementation of the ideal School Bag weight – Orders Issued – Reg.

Ref

1. Guidelines issued by the Department of School Education & Literacy, MHRD, GoI under ‘School Bag Policy-2020’.
2. No.ESE02-21021/106/2020-SCERT – Minutes of the meeting conducted by the Director, School Education, a brainstorming session through VC on the Policy on School Bag on 11.12.2020 at 12 Noon.
3. Proc.Rc.No. ESE02/564/2022-SCERT dt: 19.08.2022 of the Commissioner of School Education, A.P., Amaravati.

&&&

In continuation of the orders issued in the reference 3rd read above, all the Regional Joint Directors of School Education and District Educational Officers in the state are informed that excessive school bag weight has been identified as a major concern affecting the health and learning experience of children.

They are further informed that the school bag is a common cause of backache in school-going children. A heavy bag may cause a child to compensate by leaning his body forward, and this can strain muscles in his neck, shoulders and back. The child may also find it difficult to put the bag on and take it off, or he falls frequently in school while carrying his schoolbag. Further, various international organisations have recommended the weight of school bags in relation to the body weight from time to time and recommended that backpack weight should not exceed 5–10 per cent of the child’s body weight.

They are further informed that it is decided to implement the ‘School Bag Policy-2020’ in all schools in Andhra Pradesh State. As a part of the above policy, the following measures have been taken by the Department of School Education:

1. The merging of textbooks was implemented to reduce the weight of students’ books. For classes I and II, all subjects are combined into a single book. For classes III to V, there is one book for all language subjects and another book for all non-language subjects. In classes VI to IX, there is one book for all language subjects, while Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies are each provided as separate books.
2. Additionally, the semester system (Sem-1, June to October & Sem-2, November to March) has been adopted to reduce the stress and burden on the children considerably, as they have to carry only half of the books.
3. Subject-wise period allocation & weightage for all classes I to X included in the academic calendar, to guide the heads of the schools to design a suitable timetable for their schools by keeping the ‘School Bag Policy-2020’ in mind.
4. ‘NO BAG DAY’ has been introduced for the students of classes I to IX on every Saturday, to provide students with a balanced mix of academic reinforcement, extracurricular engagement, and holistic development, besides reducing the burden of bag weight on the students.

📋 Guidelines for Implementation

In this connection, the following guidelines are issued for implementation.

1. The school should design the timetable by taking the ‘School Bag Policy – 2020’ into consideration and ensure that students carry a minimum amount of weight to school.
2. Experiential learning, which is also recommended by the NEP-2020, can help students grasp concepts much faster than long hours of study. Project work plays a vital role in learning; students collect the materials in and around their surroundings, so they do not need to carry books with them. The teacher should be encouraged to use these kinds of teaching methods.
3. No homework should be given for classes 1 & 2.
4. For classes 3 to 5 the workbooks are curriculum-based; students can write their homework directly on the pages of the workbooks and return it to teachers at school.
5. Homework should be given in such a way that it should not become a burden for students to carry too many books for Classes 6 to 10.
6. Homework should be given on a daily basis by allotting particular days for each subject, which can reduce the number of books to be carried.
7. Allow the students to use long notebooks on both sides for two different subjects in High Schools.
8. The teachers should specify the subjects to teach in the class and see that they carry only the books that are required for that day, so that it will become a habit for the students to carry them accordingly.
9. Semester-wise textbooks are only to be carried by the students in their bags. Once the assessment for Semester-I is completed, ensure that they carry only Semester-II books. However, SA-II will be in 2 semesters.
10. Wherever possible, the Head teacher/teachers should find a secure place to keep the books in boxes/shelves in the classroom/school itself.
11. Wherever possible, workbooks, assignments, dictionaries, reference books, practice materials etc., are to be kept in the school itself.
12. Encourage the students to bring only the prescribed books to school as per the timetable.
13. From time to time, the Head Teacher and the respective teachers must ensure the school bag weight should not be more than the weight mentioned in the ‘School Bag Policy-2020’.

Besides the above guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for regulation, monitoring, and implementation of the School Bag Weight Policy are also issued herewith. The same are appended to this proceedings in the Annexure.

Therefore, all the Regional Joint Directors of School Education and District Educational Officers in the state are requested to disseminate the above guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures to all the management of schools & field-level functionaries and ensure that the same are implemented in letter and spirit without any deviation.

Treat this reference as Most Urgent.
Encl: SOP (School Bag Weight Management)

Thameem Ansariya A, I.A.S
Director of School Education

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📘 Annexure – Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): School Bag Weight Management in Schools

Government of Andhra Pradesh
State Council of Educational Research and Training
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP)
School Bag Weight Management in Schools

Excessive school bag weight has been identified as a major concern affecting the health and learning experience of children. Therefore, the following Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are to be communicated for implementation.

The school education system needs to have faith in the child’s agency. Children are natural learners. They learn more when they are stress free and are in a conducive learning environment. Learning under pressure makes them anxious and lose interest in learning. Their day-to-day life experiences, voices, questions, etc., need to be given adequate space in the classroom and new learning needs to be built upon that. This will make them understand the required concepts rather than rote memorising.

Once the school system shifts from textbook dominated culture to learner-centric competence-based culture, the problem of heavy bags will automatically be addressed. Various surveys and classroom transaction-process studies conducted from time to time have revealed that the schoolbag is heavy and textbook and teacher talk dominate in the classroom.

The school bag is a common cause of backache in school-going children. A heavy bag may cause a child to compensate by leaning his body forward and this can strain muscles in his neck, shoulders and back. The child may also find it difficult to put the bag on and take it off, or he falls frequently in school while carrying his schoolbag.

Various international organisations have recommended the weight of school bag in relation to the body weight from time to time and recommended that backpack weight should not exceed 5–10 per cent of the child’s bodyweight.

1. Title

Standard Operational Procedure (SOP) for Regulation and Monitoring of School Bag Weight.

Cambridge English Dictionary defines school bag as “A bag that is used for carrying books, etc., for school, usually with a long strap and carried over the shoulder, or carried on the back like a backpack.”

2. Objectives

• To ensure safe and healthy school bag weight for students
• To reduce physical strain and health risks among children
• To implement recommendations of NEP 2020 and Yashpal Committee (1993)
• To promote joyful, stress-free learning

3. Policy Basis

3.1 NEP 2020 & School Bag Policy 2020, The Children’s School Bag (Limitation on Weight) Bill, 2006, Reduction of weight of school bag — need for strict compliance, guidelines issued by Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan on 29.12.2009

• School bag weight should not exceed 10% of student’s body weight
• Emphasis on reducing curriculum load and textbook weight
• Introduction of bag less days (Class 1–9) under NO Bag Day for experiential learning
• No homework up to Class II

3.2 Yashpal Committee (1993) – Learning Without Burden

• Reduce curriculum overload
• Shift from rote learning to conceptual learning
• Avoid unnecessary textbooks and materials
• Promote child-centred education

4. Scope

Applicable to:

• All classes (Pre-primary to Class X / XII)
• All school stakeholders (Students, Teachers, Administrators, Parents)

5. Standard Weight Guidelines

Class Level	Recommended Bag Weight
Pre-primary	No school bag
Classes I–II	1.6 – 2.2 kg
Classes III–V	1.7 – 2.5 kg
Classes VI–VII	2 – 3 kg
Class VIII	2.5 – 4 kg
Classes IX–X	2.5 – 4.5 kg
Classes XI–XII	3.5 – 5 kg

General Rule: Bag weight must be ≤ 10% of body weight

6. Roles and Responsibilities

6.1 District Educational Officer

• Provide detailed guidelines and SOPs to all educational institutions in his/her jurisdiction.
• Constitute a District-level committee to monitor school bag weight.
• Conduct review meetings with MEOs and other stakeholders.

6.2 Deputy Educational Officer / Mandal Educational Officer

• Provide orientation to all school heads on the strict implementation of the school bag weight policy.
• Observe implementation of the school bag weight policy during regular school inspections.
• Instruct all school heads to prepare a quality timetable, including bag-less hours.

6.3 School Management

• Provide a digital weighing machine in the school
• Ensure Almirahs/lockers/storage facilities to keep their books in school.
• Provide drinking water to reduce the bottle load
• Form a School Bag Monitoring Committee

6.4 Head of Institution

• Ensure compliance with SOP
• Conduct monthly audits of bag weight
• Display weight charts in classrooms
• Ensure that teachers follow the timetable strictly.

6.5 Teachers

• Inform students about the daily required books in advance
• Avoid prescribing extra books/guides
• Design smart timetables to minimise load
• Check bags periodically
• Avoid duplication of homework.

6.6 Parents

• Observe the school timetable and books carried by their wards.
• Ensure the child carries only the required materials
• Avoid adding extra notebooks/books
• Encourage proper bag usage (both shoulders)
• Observe whether the child may be suffering from physical disorders.

6.7 Students

• Follow the timetable strictly
• Avoid carrying unnecessary items

7. Operational Procedures

7.1 Daily Practices

• Students carry only subject-specific books as per the timetable
• Teachers verify compliance during class

7.2 Weekly Monitoring & Monthly Audit

• Random bag weight checks
• Record observations in the monitoring register
• Weigh the sample students’ bags
• Compare with 10% body weight rule
• Report deviations to the school head

8. Academic Load Reduction Measures

• Limit the number of textbooks per subject
• Integrate subjects (as suggested in NEP) – Bilingual Merged Text books
• Promote activity-based learning
• Introduce digital/worksheet-based learning
• Ensure the implementation of No Bag Days as outlined in the Academic Calendar.
• Encourage bag-less days and experiential activities.

9. Infrastructure Requirements

• Digital weighing machine
• Classroom storage/lockers
• Lightweight textbooks
• Drinking water facilities

10. Safety Guidelines

Bags must have:

• Two padded shoulder straps
• Proper compartments

• No single-shoulder carrying
• Avoid trolley bags (unsafe on stairs)
• Storage facility for Differently Abled students

11. Monitoring & Compliance

• Maintain School Bag Weight Register
• Conduct surprise inspections
• Non-compliance to be addressed through: Teacher guidance, Parent counselling and Timetable revision

12. Expected Outcomes

• Reduced physical strain and back problems
• Improved student well-being
• Enhanced learning experience
• Alignment with NEP 2020 vision of holistic education

13. Homework

Level	Maximum Homework
Primary	No homework up to Class II
Classes III–V	A maximum of two hours a week
Middle School (Classes VI–VIII)	A maximum of one hour a day (about five to six hours a week)
Secondary and Higher Secondary	A maximum of two hours a day (about 10 to 12 hours a week)

14. Conclusion

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aligns with NEP 2020’s vision of reducing academic burden and the Yashpal Committee’s call for “Learning Without Burden.” By systematically managing school bag weight, schools can ensure a healthier, more engaging, and child-friendly learning environment.

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APSCERT SA-1 2026 Question Paper Answer Keys PDF Download [Official Release] for 1-10th Classes

APSCERT SA-1 2026 Question Paper Answer Keys PDF Download [Official Release]. APSCERT has released the Summative -1 Assessment Exam Question Papers Answer Keys for POV purpose. Download all the Principles of Valuation Answer Keys for SA-1 exams held from 9th Nov 2026. 

APSCERT SA-1 2026 Question Paper Answer Keys PDF Download [Official Release] for 1-10th Classes

APSCERT SA-1 2026 Question Paper Answer Keys PDF Download [Official Release]. APSCERT has released the Summative -1 Assessment Exam Question Papers Answer Keys for POV purpose. Download all the Principles of Valuation Answer Keys for SA-1 exams held from 9th Nov 2026. 

Links to Download APSCERT SA-1 2026 Answer Keys PDF

• Download SA-1 2026 Telugu 1-9th Classes Official Answer Key
• Download SA-1 2026 English 1-5th Classes Official Answer Key
• Download SA-1 2026 HIndi 6-9th Classes Official Answer Key

CPS to OPS Implementation Guidelines for DSC 2003, AP Police 2003 and Others GO 158 09/11/2026

CPS TO OPS Guidelines. GO 158 09/11/2026. Pensions – Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) – One-time option for coverage under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) to eligible employees whose recruitment notification/ advertisement was issued prior to 01.09.2004 and were appointed on or after 01.09.2004 and are presently covered under the CPS – Implementation of G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III–Pension & GPF) Department, dated 13.07.2026 – Detailed Guidelines – Issued.

The Andhra Pradesh Finance (HR.III-Pension & GPF) Department has released G.O.Ms.No.158 dated 09-11-2026 with detailed operational guidelines for the CPS to OPS conversion in AP. Under this one-time option, eligible State Government employees whose recruitment notification or advertisement was issued before 01.09.2004, but who were appointed on or after 01.09.2004 and are now covered under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), can move to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). 

CPS to OPS Implementation Guidelines for DSC 2003, AP Police 2003 and Others GO 158 09/11/2026

The Andhra Pradesh Finance (HR.III-Pension & GPF) Department has released G.O.Ms.No.158 dated 09-11-2026 with detailed operational guidelines for the CPS to OPS conversion in AP. Under this one-time option, eligible State Government employees whose recruitment notification or advertisement was issued before 01.09.2004, but who were appointed on or after 01.09.2004 and are now covered under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), can move to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). 

GO 158 09/11/2026 The order explains the full step-by-step procedure through the NIDHI portal, the role of the Initial Appointing Authority, DDO, Head of Office and DTA/PAO, the treatment of the CPS corpus, GPF admission and the last date, 31.12.2026. It also carries the application formats (Annexures II-A, II-B) and draft proceedings (Annexures III-A, III-B) for AP teachers, employees, retired employees and family pension beneficiaries.

G.O.Ms.No.158 – Overview Summary

This G.O. is issued to implement G.O.Ms.No.53 (dated 13.07.2026), which adopted the Government of India policy of giving a one-time option for employees whose recruitment began before the National Pension System but whose appointment came later. G.O.Ms.No.158 lays down the uniform, transparent and time-bound procedure to be followed across the State.

Item	Details
G.O. Number & Date	G.O.Ms.No.158, Finance (HR.III-Pension & GPF) Department, 09-11-2026
Subject	One-time option for coverage under OPS for employees covered under CPS
Who can opt	Employees with recruitment notification issued before 01.09.2004 and appointed on or after 01.09.2004 (serving, retired, and family pension beneficiaries)
How to apply	Only online through the NIDHI portal – tile “CPS-OPS Conversion”
Last date	On or before 31.12.2026
Certified copies from IAA	Within 15 working days of the request
IAA authenticity confirmation	Within 7 days of receiving the application from DDO
DDO processing	Within 10 working days for applications confirmed as authentic
Pension Rules after conversion	Andhra Pradesh Revised Pension Rules, 1980
PF account	GPF / ZPPF etc.; subscription starts from the month after conversion takes effect

Key Points at a Glance

• All applications are processed only through the NIDHI portal. Serving employees use their current NIDHI login; retired, voluntarily retired, technically resigned employees and dependents of deceased employees must register and create new credentials.
• Applicants must first obtain four certified documents from the Initial Appointing Authority: recruitment notification, selection list, appointment order and joining/admission order.
• The DDO verifies and forwards the case through the Head of Office to the PAO (Secretariat and HoDs) or the Director of Treasuries and Accounts (all others), and then to the Competent Authority for final orders.
• Rejected applications can be corrected and resubmitted within the deadline.
• After conversion, CPS contributions stop, a GPF account is opened, and the Service Register is updated with the prescribed entry.
• The CPS corpus is not paid in cash to a serving employee. The employee’s contribution goes to the GPF account with interest; the Government contribution and appreciation go to the Government.
• Special provisions cover retired employees, deaths in service, invalidation, and annuity withdrawal.

Full Text of G.O.Ms.No.158 (Finance Department)

GOVERNMENT OF ANDHRA PRADESH

ABSTRACT

Pensions – Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) – One-time option for coverage under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) to eligible employees whose recruitment notification/ advertisement was issued prior to 01.09.2004 and were appointed on or after 01.09.2004 and are presently covered under the CPS – Implementation of G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III–Pension & GPF) Department, dated 13.07.2026 – Detailed Guidelines – Issued.

---

FINANCE (HR.III-PENSION & GPF) DEPARTMENT

G.O.MS.No. 158   Dated: 09-11-2026

Read the following:-

1. G.O.Ms.No.653, Finance (Pension-I) Department, Dated:22.09.2004.

2. G.O.Ms.No.121, Finance (HR.V-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated:18.07.2017.

3. Office Memorandum No.57/04/2019-P&PW(B) Department of Pension & Pensioner’s Welfare, Government of India, Dated:17/02/2020.

4. Office Memorandum No.57/05/2021-P&PW(B) Department of Pension & Pensioner’s Welfare, Government of India, Dated:03/03/2023.

5. G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-PENSION & GPF) Department, Dated:13.07.2026.

***

O R D E R:

Government introduced Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) with effect from 01.09.2004 vide reference 1st read above, making the Scheme applicable to all State Government employees appointed on or after 01.09.2004, in line with the Government of India’s "National Pension System’’ which is applicable to all Central Government employees w.e.f. 01.01.2004.

2. Subsequently, the Government of India, Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare, issued Office Memoranda dated 17.02.2020 and 03.03.2023 vide references of 3rd and 4th read above, extending a one-time option to Central Government employees whose recruitment process had commenced prior to the introduction of the National Pension System, but appointments were made thereafter. Government vide reference 5th read above, have issued orders, adopting the policy of Government of India and extended a one-time option to eligible State Government employees duly stating that operational guidelines for implementation of the procedure will be issued later.

3. Accordingly, detailed operational guidelines in Annexure-I to this order are being issued to ensure uniform, transparent and time-bound implementation of one-time option, throughout the State. Eligible employees, serving or retired, and family pension beneficiaries, shall exercise their options as per these guidelines on or before 31.12.2026.

4. All proposals shall be processed expeditiously by the concerned appointing authorities and Heads of Offices duly maintaining the records scrupulously to ensure transparency, accountability and timely settlement of pensionary benefits.

5. The Secretariat Departments, the Heads of Departments, the Director of Treasuries and Accounts and all other authorities, whoever may be concerned in this matter, shall ensure strict compliance with these instructions.

6. The G.O. is available on Government website and can be accessed at http//goir.ap.gov.in

(BY ORDER AND IN THE NAME OF THE GOVERNOR OF ANDHRA PRADESH)

PEEYUSH KUMAR

PRINCIPAL SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT

To

All the Department of Secretariat.

All the Heads of Departments.

The Director of Treasuries and Accounts.

Copy to:

The Principal Secretary to the Hon'ble Chief Minister.

The P.S to Hon'ble Minister for Finance.

The P.S to Chief Secretary to the Government.

The P.S to Principal Secretary to Government, Finance Department.

The P.S to Secretary to Government (HR), Finance Department.

SF/SCs (3128258)

//FORWARDED :: BY ORDER//

SECTION OFFICER

ANNEXURE-I – Operational Guidelines

(Operational guidelines under G.O. Ms. No 53, Finance (HR.III-PENSION & GPF) Department, Dated 13.07.2026)

1. Eligibility and Exercise of Option

a. A one-time option shall be available to employees who satisfy all the conditions prescribed in G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III–Pension & GPF) Department, dated 13.07.2026.

b. All applications for consideration of conversion from CPS to OPS shall be process only through the NIDHI portal. Accordingly, all applicants shall exercise their options through Nidhi Portal where a tile for “CPS-OPS Conversion” shall be provided.

c. The serving employees shall use their current NIDHI credentials to submit their applications. The non-serving applicants (retired, voluntarily retired, dependents of the deceased employees, technically resigned employees etc), shall create new credentials by registering on the NIDHI application and shall file their applications using such newly created credentials.

2. Certified Copies from the Initial Appointing Authority (IAA):

a) All applicants shall approach the appointing authority of the department in which he/she was initially appointed (herein referred to as the “IAA”) to obtain certified copies of the following documents duly submitting the request in Annexures II-A & II-B:

(i) Recruitment Notification / Advertisement pertaining to his/her initial appointment, issued by the appropriate Recruiting Agency.

(ii) Selection list communicated by the recruiting agency.

(iii) Orders of appointment issued by the IAA.

(iv) Orders admitting the individual to duty, pursuant to the orders of appointment.

b) Upon receipt of such application, the IAA shall carefully verify the particulars with reference to the official records, and furnish the applicant with the certified copies of the four aforementioned documents, within 15 working days, in Annexures III-A and III-B.

c) On receipt of such certified copies, the applicant shall submit his application on NIDHI to the DDO of the office where he/she is currently working, duly uploading the certified documents furnished by the IAA.

i. In case of non-serving applicants, the certified copies shall be submitted to the DDO of the office in which the employee last worked while in service.

ii. In case of a person working on foreign service deputation, the employee after receiving certified copies shall directly apply to the authorities mentioned in para.4(b), who shall then process and forward to the DTA/PAO offices for verification.

d) In each case, the DDO shall verify whether the requisite documents are submitted by the individual and shall forward the applications to the IAA for confirming the authenticity of the certified copies.

e) The IAA shall confirm the authenticity of such documents on the NIDHI portal within 7 days from the date of receipt of the application from the DDO. After due verification, he shall communicate his remarks as “Confirmed as authentic” or “Not authentic” to the DDO.

3. Processing of Applications by DDO :

a. On receipt of such communication from the IAA, the DDO shall take one of the following actions

i. For all those applications received as “Confirmed as authentic”, the DDO shall proceed with further action explained at Para 3(b).

ii. For all those applications received as “Not authentic”, the DDO shall return the application to the applicant with remarks for rectification and resubmission within the deadline. Applications submitted within the deadline only shall be reconsidered.

b. The DDO shall proceed to process the applications “Confirmed as authentic” within 10 working days through the prescribed channel for consideration and final decision by the competent authority, as described hereunder

i. The DDO shall scrutinize the application submitted online by the employee, along with the supporting documents, with reference to the Service Register, certified copies (Para 2(a)) and other relevant official records and process the application online in accordance with the prescribed procedure.

ii. The DDO shall also provide the relevant SR extracts from the employee’s SR and then forward to the Head of the Office.

iii. The Head of the Office after further verification and upon satisfaction regarding the application, shall forward the verified proposal to the following with a specific recommendation regarding the eligibility of the employee as per GOMs 53 for conversion.

a. Pay and Accounts Officer (PAO) - in case of the employees working in Secretariat Departments and the Heads of Departments.

b. Director of Treasuries and Accounts - in case of all other employees,

iv. In case of the applicant, not being eligible, the Head of Office may recommend rejection of the application with recorded reasons to the Competent Authority. Such an application can be resubmitted within the specified deadline by the applicant, after addressing the discrepancies observed.

v. The proposal forwarded by the HOO to DTA/PAO shall invariably contain the following documents:

a. Certified copies issued by the Initial Appointing Authority.

b. PRAN details of the employee.

c. SR Extracts of the appointment order details and joining of the employee.

4. Issue of Final Orders (DTA & Secretaries) :

a. The DTA/PAO shall scrutinize the proposals with reference to the prescribed eligibility conditions and the documents furnished by the DDO through the respective Head of Office.

b. Upon satisfaction as to the correctness and completeness of the proposal, DTA/PAO shall record its recommendation and forward the proposal to the following authorities (hereafter referred to as the “Competent Authority”) for issue of final orders for conversion from CPS to OPS pension scheme

i. In case of all Secretariat employees, the Spl.CS/Principal Secretary/Secretary concerned.

ii. In case of non-gazetted officers, the current appointing authority of the employee.

iii. In case of gazetted officers, the Head of the Department concerned.

c. Where the eligibility of the employee is not established from the available records, or where any discrepancy is noticed in the Recruitment Notification, selection, appointment, joining date, Service Register or PRAN particulars, the DTA/PAO shall recommend the case for rejection to the Competent Authority duly recording the reasons thereon.

d. Invariably, the applicant can resubmit his application duly addressing the discrepancies indicated within the stipulated deadline for reconsideration.

5. Responsibilities of the stakeholders :

(a) Initial Appointing Authority:

• Issue certified copies to the applicants within prescribed timelines.
• Authenticate the documents submitted by the applicant upon being referred to by the DDO.

(b) DDO & Head of Office:

• Scrutiny of the application and documents with reference to the certified copies, Service Register, appointment/joining particulars and other official records.
• Verify the applicant’s identity, service particulars, authenticity and correctness of documents, and consistency of the employee details.
• Upload relevant Service Register extracts against each application.
• Give clear recommendation on the application to the DTA/PAO.
• Clarification of discrepancies, if any, raised by PAO/DTA.
• Forward application for allotment of Provident Fund account to PAG/DTA/ZP, as applicable.

(c) DTA/PAO:

• Independently scrutinize each application with the provided records and information made available by HOO.
• Seek any clarifications from HOO in case of discrepancies.
• Verify completeness and consistency and record findings.
• Give specific recommendation on the proposal to the sanctioning authority.
• DTA to process the exit proposal of the employees whose applications are approved by sanctioning authorities.

6. Admission to GPF and Service Records:

a. Every employee, whose option for conversion to the OPS is accepted, shall be admitted to the General Provident Fund (GPF) / other Provident Fund in accordance with the Andhra Pradesh General Provident Fund Rules or other applicable Provident Fund Rules, as the case may be.

b. Immediately after issue of the orders accepting the option for conversion to OPS, the Head of Office shall forward the proposal for allotment of a Provident Fund (GPF, ZPPF etc.) Account Number to the Principal Accountant General (A&E) / Director of Treasuries and Accounts / Zilla Parishad, as applicable. The Provident Fund subscription shall commence from the salary for the month immediately succeeding the month in which the conversion takes effect. The Head of Office shall ensure that no further deductions towards the employee's contribution under the CPS are made once PF subscription is initiated.

c. Immediately after issuance of the conversion orders, the Service Register of the employee shall be updated, and the following entry shall be recorded:

"The employee is permitted to come under the Old Pension Scheme in terms of G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III–Pension & GPF) Department, dated 13.07.2026, vide Proceedings No.__________, dated.___. The employee shall henceforth be governed by the Andhra Pradesh Revised Pension Rules, 1980. Service rendered from the date of initial regular appointment shall qualify for pension subject to the provisions of the Pension Rules."

7. Regulation of Pensionary Benefits:

Employees whose option is accepted under these instructions shall be deemed to have come under the purview of the Andhra Pradesh Revised Pension Rules,1980, and their service shall thereafter be regulated in accordance with the said Rules.

8. Treatment of CPS Corpus

a. The accumulated CPS corpus comprising the employee's contribution, Government contribution and the appreciation/increased value of the subscriptions arising from investment returns thereon shall be dealt with, by the Director of Treasuries and Accounts, being the Nodal Officer for NPS, in accordance with the procedure prescribed.

b. Conversion to the Old Pension Scheme shall not confer any right upon a serving employee to receive any portion of the accumulated CPS corpus in cash. The CPS corpus shall be transferred/adjusted in favour of the Government and the GPF Account of the individual, respectively in the manner prescribed at Para 9.

9. Transfer of CPS Corpus – In-Service Employees

a. The employee shall submit an application to the Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) for transfer of the employee's contribution from the PRAN account to the General Provident Fund (GPF) account.

b. After verification of the application and relevant records, the DDO shall forward the proposal to the Treasury Officer/Pay and Accounts Officer (TO/PAO) concerned. The TO/PAO shall scrutinize the proposal and, upon being satisfied with the correctness of the particulars, shall submit the same to the Director of Treasuries and Accounts (DTA) for further necessary action.

c. The Director of Treasuries and Accounts (DTA) shall initiate redemption of the CPS corpus through the functionality available in the Protean-CRA system.

d. Upon receipt of the redeemed amount from the NPS Trust, the Director of Treasuries and Accounts shall account for and adjust the amount as follows:

i. Employee's Contribution: The employee's contribution shall be credited to the GPF account of the employee. The GPF account shall be recast by allowing up-to-date interest in accordance with FR 16 and Rule 11 of the Andhra Pradesh General Provident Fund Rules, after excluding the amount, if any, already withdrawn by way of partial withdrawal from CPS corpus.

ii Government Contribution: The Government contribution shall be adjusted/ credited to the Head of Account 2071-01-911-00-96000-000VN, or to such other Head of Account as may be prescribed by the Government.

iii Accrued Appreciation: The appreciation accrued on the CPS corpus shall be adjusted/credited to the Head of Account 007100-800 – Other Receipts, or to such other Head of Account as may be prescribed by the Government.

10. Transfer of CPS Corpus – Retired Employees:

a. Where a retiree has already availed retirement benefits under the CPS in accordance with the PFRDA Exit Guidelines, the Government contribution and the returns accrued thereon shall be remitted to the Government account as a pre-condition for extending the pensionary benefits under the Andhra Pradesh Revised Pension Rules, 1980. The recovery and remittance of the amount shall be made in accordance with the procedure prescribed in respect of the government contribution and accrued appreciation on government contribution at para 9 above. Such employee shall migrate into the OPS scheme only after proper settlement of the retirement benefits is completed by the DTA.

b. Where the retiree has not availed retirement benefits under the CPS, the Government Contribution along with the appreciated corpus thereon shall be remitted to the Government and the employee contribution and appreciated value thereon shall be paid to the individual.

c. The Director of Treasuries and Accounts shall be responsible for ensuring the return and remittance of the Government contribution and the returns accrued thereon in accordance with the procedure prescribed.

11. Cases of Death or Invalidation:

a. Where an employee, who is eligible for conversion to the Old Pension Scheme under G.O.Ms.No.53, dies while in service or is retired on invalidation, and the entire CPS corpus has already been remitted to the Government account for sanction of Family Pension or Invalidation Pension, the employee's contribution forming part of the corpus so remitted shall be paid to the person entitled to receive the pensionary benefits, by drawing under the Head of Account 0071-01-101-00-06-000-000VN, by the Director of Treasuries and Accounts, as and when such cases arise.

b. Where the family of such a deceased employee has already availed the death withdrawal benefit under CPS in accordance with the PFRDA Exit Guidelines, the Government contribution and the returns accrued thereon shall be remitted to the Government account as a pre-condition for extending the benefits of the Old Pension Scheme under these instructions.

12. Annuity Withdrawal

12. In cases where an employee or eligible family member, in the event of death of an employee, proposes to withdraw from an annuity already purchased under the CPS, the Director of Treasuries and Accounts shall facilitate withdrawal from the concerned Annuity Service Provider and arrange payment to the eligible claimant, in accordance with the guidelines issued by the PFRDA in this regard.

13. Online Application and Dashboard

a. The Director of Treasuries and Accounts (DTA) shall ensure that the Option Form, requisite fields, verification module and prescribed workflow are available in the NIDHI Payroll Application for enabling the following processes:

i. submission of the option by the employee;

ii. verification by the DDO/Head of Office (HoO), as applicable;

iii. confirmation by IAA.

iv. scrutiny and verification by the DTA/PAO;

v. processing and forwarding through the prescribed channel; and

vi. issuance of orders by the competent authority.

b. DTA/PAO shall form a special cell for the purpose of time-bound implementation of these orders.

c. The APCFSS shall make necessary arrangements in the NIDHI Application as advised by the DTA to facilitate online submission and processing of the Option Forms by eligible employees.

ANNEXURE II-A – Application to IAA for Certified Copies (Serving / Retired / Resigned Employees)

To,
The Initial Appointing Authority (IAA),
Office: Address

Sub: SUB: PS- ………………… Services – Sri/Smt/Kum………………….Appointed as …………………….……G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dt:13.07.2026–Conversion from Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to Old Pension Scheme (OPS) –Certified Copies of initial recruitment and appointment records - Requested for - Reg.

Ref: 1. G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated: 13.07.2026.

2. G.O.Ms.No……, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated: ..10.2026.

***

Respected Sir/Madam,

The Government of Andhra Pradesh, vide the reference first cited, have issued orders providing a one-time option for eligible employees whose recruitment notifications were published prior to 01.09.2004 and who were appointed to Government service after the introduction of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), to migrate from CPS to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), subject to fulfilment of the prescribed conditions. As part of the mandatory verification process to exercise this option, I am required to submit certified copies of my initial recruitment, selection, and appointment records to the competent authority.

I was initially appointed as………………………………………. (post) and joined duty on ………………………………………. (date) in………………………………………. (name of office/department). As your office was the Initial Appointing Authority in respect of my initial appointment, I request that certified copies of the following documents available in the records of your office may kindly be issued:

1. Recruitment Notification/Advertisement under which my selection was initiated.

2. Selection List/Allotment List issued by the Recruitment Agency (APPSC /DSC / APSLPRB etc.) allocating me to your Department/Office.

3. Appointment Orders issued by your office.

4. Orders admitting me to duty.

In view of the prescribed timeline for submission of the option for conversion from CPS to OPS, I request that the above certified copies may kindly be issued at the earliest to facilitate timely submission and processing of my application.

Thanking you, Sir/Madam.

Yours faithfully,

(Signature of Applicant)

Name of the applicant : …………………………….

Present Designation : ……………………………

CFMS ID / HRMS ID : ……………………………

Office : ……………………………

Mobile Number : ……………………………

ANNEXURE II-B – Application to IAA for Certified Copies (Family Member of Deceased Employees)

To,

The Initial Appointing Authority (IAA),
Office: Address

Sub: PS…………… Services – Sri/Smt./Kum........................Appointed as …………… G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dt: 13.07.2026– Conversion from Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to Old Pension Scheme (OPS) – Certified Copies of initial recruitment and appointment records - Requested for-Reg.

Ref: 1. G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated: 13.07.2026.

2. G.O.Ms.No……, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated:............. 10.2026.

***

Respected Sir/Madam,

The Government of Andhra Pradesh, vide the reference first cited, have issued orders providing a one-time option for eligible employees whose recruitment notifications were published prior to 01.09.2004 and who were appointed to Government service after the introduction of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), to migrate from CPS to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), subject to fulfilment of the prescribed conditions. As part of the mandatory verification process to exercise this option, I am required to submit certified copies of my initial recruitment, selection, and appointment records to the competent authority.

I, Sri/Smt./Kum…………………………………, am the spouse/entitled family member of Late Sri/Smt./Kum. ………………………, who was initially appointed as ……………………… (post) on ………………. (date) in ……………………… (name of office/department).

As your office was the Initial Appointing Authority in respect of the said appointment, I request that certified copies of the following documents of Late Sri/Smt./Kum. ………...……… …………………………. available in the records of your office may kindly be issued to facilitate the processing of the case for conversion from CPS to OPS, subject to the applicable Government orders.

i. Recruitment Notification/Advertisement under which selection was initiated.

ii. Selection List/Allotment List issued by the Recruitment Agency (APPSC/DSC/ APSLPRB etc.) allocating Sri/Smt./Kum……………………………………….to your Department/Office.

iii. Appointment Orders issued by your office.

iv. Orders admitting the Sri/Smt./Kum.……………………………………….to duty.

In view of the prescribed timeline for submission of the option for conversion from CPS to OPS, I request that the above certified copies may kindly be issued at the earliest to facilitate timely submission and processing of my application.

Thanking you, Sir/Madam.

Yours faithfully,

(Signature of Applicant)

Name of the applicant : ……………………………………….

S/o/W/o/D/o <Employee name and designation> ………………………………………………

CFMS ID / HRMS ID : ……………………………………….

Mobile Number : ……………………………………….

ANNEXURE III-A – Draft Proceedings to Provide Certified Copies (for IAA)

(Draft proceedings to provide certified copies to the applicants – for IAA)

GOVERNMENT OF ANDHRA PRADESH

DEPARTMENT OF …………………………………..

O/o The

Office Address.

Rc. No. ……………………..

Dated:………………….

Sub: PS ………………..…… Services – Sri/Smt./Kum…..………………… Appointed as ……..………………………………………………..G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dt: 13.07.2026 – Conversion from Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to Old Pension Scheme (OPS) – Certified Copies of initial recruitment and appointment records - Requested for-Reg.

Ref: 1. G.O.Rt./Proceedings No …………….., dated…..…… of (Authority which issued initial appointment orders)

2. G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated: 13.07.2026.

3. G.O.Ms No….Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, . Dated: ………….

4. Representation received from Sri/Smt. …………………..(name), ………….. (Designation), Dated: 13.10.2026.

---O---

In pursuance of the Orders and guidelines issued by the Government of Andhra Pradesh in the reference 3rd and 4th cited, Sri/Smt./Kum………………….……….. (Name of Applicant), ……………………. (Present Designation), …………… Office, who was initially appointed as …………… (Post of initial appointment), under …………………. (Service rules) in this office/department has submitted a representation requesting this office, being the initial Appointing Authority, to furnish certified copies of their service entry documents required for the verification and processing of the CPS-to-OPS conversion option.

Accordingly, the personal file and service records of the individual available in this office have been verified and the requested verified documents are hereby certified and furnished herewith to the individual:

1. Recruitment Notification/Advertisement under which the initial selection was initiated.

2. Selection List/Allotment Letter issued by the competent Recruitment Agency (APPSC, DSC, APSLPRB etc.,).

3. Initial Appointment Order issued.

4. Orders admitting the individual to duty.

Signature:

Designation:

ANNEXURE III-B – Draft Proceedings for Certified Copies in Respect of a Deceased Employee (for IAA)

(Draft proceedings for furnishing certified copies of initial recruitment and appointment records in respect of a deceased employee – for IAA)

GOVERNMENT OF ANDHRA PRADESH

DEPARTMENT OF …………………………………..

O/o The (Office Address)

Rc. No…………………..

Dated: ……………………

Sub: PS…………………… Services – Late Sri/Smt./ Kum. ………………………… Conversion from Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to Old Pension Scheme (OPS) – G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, dated 13.07.2026 – Request for certified copies of initial recruitment and appointment records in respect of the deceased employee by the Spouse / Family Member – Orders issued – Reg.

Ref: 1. G.O.Rt./Proceedings No …………., dated. … of (Authority which issued initial appointment orders)

2. G.O.Ms.No.53, Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated: 13.07.2026.

3. G.O Ms No…., Finance (HR.III-Pension, GPF) Department, Dated: ………….

4. Representation received from Sri/Smt./ Kum.………………..….………..(name), ………….……….. (Relationship with the Deceased Employee) of Late Sri/Smt/Kum.. …………………………… (name of the deceased employee), Dated:……………...

---O---

In pursuance of the orders and guidelines issued by the Government of Andhra Pradesh in the references 3rd and 4th cited, Sri/Smt./Kum. …………………………… (name of the applicant), …………………………… (relationship with the deceased employee), of Late Sri/Smt./Kum.. …………………………… (name of the deceased employee), has submitted a representation requesting this office, being the initial Appointing Authority of the deceased employee, to furnish certified copies of the initial recruitment and appointment records of Late Sri/Smt./Kum.. ……………………………..… (name of the deceased employee), who was initially appointed as …………………………… (post of initial appointment) under…………………..…………… (service rules) in this office/department. The documents are required for verification and processing of the CPS-to-OPS conversion option in respect of the deceased employee, as applicable under the Government orders cited.

Accordingly, the personal file and service records of the individual available in this office have been verified and the requested verified documents are hereby certified and furnished herewith to the applicant:

1. Recruitment Notification/Advertisement under which the initial selection was initiated.

2. Selection List/Allotment Letter issued by the competent Recruitment Agency (APPSC, DSC, APSLPRB etc.,).

3. Initial Appointment Order issued.

4. Orders admitting the individual to duty.

Signature:

Designation:

Office & Address:

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