Bihar Government Reverses Ban on Competitive Exams for Urban Department Staff
The Bihar state government has officially withdrawn its recent order that imposed restrictions on officers and employees of subordinate cadres under the urban development and housing department (UDHD) from taking competitive examinations. This reversal comes just two weeks after the initial policy was implemented, marking a significant shift in administrative approach.
Immediate Withdrawal of Previous Order
A notification issued on Monday states that the order dated April 6, 2026, which granted limited permission for such employees to appear in competitive exams, stands withdrawn with immediate effect following reconsideration. The new order carries the approval of the competent authority and has been signed by Rajeev Ranjan Tiwari, deputy secretary of the Government of Bihar.
No additional guidelines have been mentioned in the withdrawal notification. The copy of the order has been sent to various key organizations, including Buidco, Bihar State Housing Board, Patna Metro Rail Corporation Ltd, Housing Metropolitan Area Authority, Real Estate Regulatory Authority, Real Estate Appellate Authority, municipal corporations, and engineers, among others.
Background of the Initial Restriction
Just two weeks ago, the department issued an order restricting government employees in subordinate cadres to appearing in only one competitive examination during their entire service period. The move was aimed at streamlining operations and improving administrative efficiency by minimising disruptions caused by frequent exam preparations and related leaves. This policy had sparked discussions among employees and stakeholders regarding career advancement opportunities and workforce morale.
Implications of the Reversal
The withdrawal of this order is expected to have several implications:
- Employees under the UDHD can now pursue multiple competitive exams without restrictions, potentially enhancing their career prospects.
- Administrative processes may need to adapt to accommodate exam-related leaves and preparations, which could impact departmental efficiency.
- The decision reflects a reconsideration of balance between operational needs and employee development within the state government.
This development highlights the dynamic nature of government policies in Bihar and their direct impact on public sector employees. As the situation evolves, further updates or guidelines may be issued to address any emerging challenges or feedback from the affected departments.
