Principals told to seek prior nod for journey beyond jurisdiction

The Directorate of Higher Education (DHE) has directed principals of all government colleges across the state to strictly follow proper procedure while submitting proposals for journey beyond jurisdiction (JBJ) and travelling allowance/daily allowance (TA/DA) bills.

In a communiqué issued recently, the directorate has observed that despite repeated instructions, several principals were still forwarding TA/DA bills directly without obtaining prior sanction for JBJ, or submitting both simultaneously, which is irregular.

The department also clarified that the provisions of the Punjab Civil Services Rules no longer apply, as the Haryana Civil Services (Travelling Allowance) Rules, 2016 are now in force.

“Principals are required to seek prior permission from higher authorities if they travel more than 20 km from their college for any official meeting or academic assignment. Only after obtaining such approval, they are entitled to claim TA/DA. However, in some cases, principals were bypassing the procedure for submitting proposals for JBJ, prompting the department to issue the instructions to ensure strict compliance with the rules,” said the principal of a government college.

Sources said to ensure uniformity and prevent procedural lapses, the directorate has directed that all proposals must be submitted as per the 2016 Rules and in the prescribed format.

“TA/DA bills should be sent only after receiving JBJ approval, and complete details of mode of travel, purpose, and supporting documents must be attached. In case of journeys by car, a copy of the vehicle’s registration certificate and the relationship with the owner should be specified. Toll tax receipts and relevant proofs of payment must also be enclosed,” the sources added.

The circular also warns that any proposals not complying with these instructions would be treated as filed for closure without further correspondence. Principals have been asked to ensure strict adherence to the guidelines in letter and spirit while submitting proposals for JBJ sanctions and TA/DA bills.