Recovery of Phd MPhil Allowance –AG  24.06.2019

Recovery of Phd MPhil Allowance –AG  24.06.2019

In light of recent audits and directives, the Office of the Accountant General Punjab has issued important clarifications regarding the grant and recovery of PhD and MPhil allowances. This document aims to provide a detailed explanation of the policies and procedures involved, ensuring compliance across all district accounts offices in Punjab.

Context and References

This notice references several key communications from the Finance Department:

1. Finance Department Letter No. FD.SR.I/9-2 016 dated: 08-10-2016
2. Letter No. U.O.NO.FD.SR-I/9-21/2016 dated 28-07-2016
3. Letter No. U.O.NO.FD.SR-I/9-55/2013 (171221/118) dated: 17-01-2018

These documents collectively address the guidelines and restrictions on the disbursement of PhD and MPhil allowances to government employees.

Clarification on Allowance Eligibility

It has been clarified that the Qualification Allowance, which includes the PhD and MPhil allowances, is not admissible for the qualification upon which an individual was initially appointed or if it is the prescribed qualification for their current post. This policy is critical to prevent any undue financial benefits being granted to employees based on their existing qualifications.

Immediate Actions Required

1. Review and Compliance:
   • All District Accounts Officers are instructed to review the records of PhD and MPhil allowances being disbursed within their jurisdictions.
   • Ensure that no allowances are being paid for qualifications that were either a part of the initial appointment criteria or are the prescribed qualifications for the respective posts.
2. Cessation of Inadmissible Payments:
   • Any inadmissible MPhil or PhD allowances currently being paid must be immediately halted.
   • This action is crucial to align with the established guidelines and prevent any financial discrepancies.
3. Recovery of Allowances:
   • Conduct a thorough audit to identify any such inadmissible payments that have been made.
   • Initiate the recovery process for any allowances that have been incorrectly disbursed.
   • Intimate the office of the Accountant General Punjab with details of the recovery actions taken, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Communication and Reporting

To ensure uniform implementation of these directives, all District Accounts Officers are required to report back to the office of the Accountant General Punjab. The report should include:

• Compliance Confirmation: A statement confirming the cessation of inadmissible allowances.
• Recovery Details: Detailed information on the amounts recovered, along with the specific cases identified.
• Future Compliance Measures: Steps being taken to prevent future discrepancies.

Conclusion

Adherence to these guidelines is imperative to maintain the integrity of the financial management system within the Punjab government. The office of the Accountant General Punjab appreciates the cooperation of all District Accounts Officers in this matter.

By ensuring compliance with these directives, we can collectively contribute to a transparent and accountable financial system that upholds the principles of fairness and equity.

Issued by:

DEPUTY ACCOUNTANT GENERAL (Pay Rolls)

Copies Forwarded For Information and Necessary Action To:

1. The Accounts Officer Incharge Pay Roll (Coordination), Local
2. All District Accounts Officers in Punjab