Railway Board Updates Guidelines for Divisional Railway Managers

The Railway Board has released new guidelines for appointing Divisional Railway Managers (DRMs) in its 68 rail divisions. Officers considered for this post must be under 52 years old and have at least 15 years of experience in Railways. The guidelines also include modifications to APAR and eligibility criteria.

The Railway Board has unveiled new guidelines for the appointment of Divisional Railway Managers (DRMs) across its 68 rail divisions. As per the guidelines, officers being considered for short-listing must be under 52 years of age and have at least 15 years of experience within Railways or Railway PSUs.

The guidelines were announced on September 3, 2024, and introduce several new criteria, although they do not offer age relaxation, a decision that has caused discontent among senior railway officials. These guidelines reiterate that DRMs should be below 52 years old as of January 1 of the vacancy year.

Experts have supported the new mandate requiring 15 years of experience in Railways specifically. Additional modifications include an officer's Annual Performance Appraisal Report (APAR) needing 60% 'Outstanding' ratings and adjusting the short-list year from a mid-year cycle to a calendar year. The changes take effect in the 2024 short-list year, with transitional allowances for over-aged officers.

(With inputs from agencies.)