The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), under the Ministry of Finance, has released the Final Integrated All-India Seniority List (AISL) of Administrative Officers (AOs) of Central GST, Central Excise, and Directorates for the period January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2020.
This move comes as part of preparations for the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) that will consider promotions of AOs to the coveted post of Chief Accounts Officer (CAO) in Group ‘A’ Gazetted cadre for the vacancy year 2026.
Background and Process
A draft AISL was earlier circulated on 17 February 2023 for comments and objections from Zonal Cadre Controlling Authorities (CCAs). Following due consultation, examination of representations, and rectification of discrepancies, the final list has now been notified and placed on the CBIC and DGHRD websites.
The seniority list has been structured in line with DoPT guidelines, with weightage given to:
- Date of regular appointment as AO,
- Zonal relative seniority,
- Length of service in the feeder grade, and
- Date of birth (to resolve ties when service details coincide).
Impact of the Seniority List
The final AISL will serve as the foundation for promotions to CAO posts across GST formations and Directorates. These promotions are a crucial part of the career progression of officers, who play a vital role in tax administration and financial accountability within CBIC.
Officers who have retired, taken voluntary retirement (VRS), or expired during the relevant period are also reflected in the list, ensuring transparency and record-keeping for the cadre.
Nationwide Coverage
The list consolidates seniority data from all major GST and Central Excise Zones across India, including Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Cochin, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Ranchi, Shillong, Vadodara, Goa, Guwahati, and DGPM (Delhi).
For instance, officers like K.K. Sindhumol (Thiruvananthapuram Zone), Ram Asrey (CBN), Nayana S. Bhandari (Mumbai Zone), and A.A. Pathan (Vadodara Zone) feature prominently at the top of the seniority chart, reflecting their appointment timelines and service history.
Official Statement
Issuing the memorandum, Sunil Tated, Principal Additional Director General (HRM-I), DGHRD, noted:
“While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in preparing the AISL, any inadvertent error or omission may be brought to the notice of this office with supporting documents.”
Next Steps
The finalisation of the AISL clears the way for the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) to convene and recommend promotions to Chief Accounts Officer (CAO) for the 2026 vacancy year.
Once approved, this will significantly strengthen the administrative capacity of CBIC, ensuring greater efficiency in tax governance and cadre management.
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