All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968

                                      All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968

Conflict of Interest

• Must declare private interests related to public duties.
• Must resolve conflicts in a way that protects public interest.
• Cannot misuse position for personal, family, or friends’ benefit.

Integrity and Professionalism

Required to:

·         Perform duties professionally and efficiently.

·         Maintain confidentiality where necessary.

·         Avoid unnecessary delays.

Political Neutrality

• Cannot:
• Join or support any political party or movement.
• Canvass in elections.
• May vote but cannot disclose voting preference.
• Must prevent family members from political activity.

Relations with Media

• Can publish or broadcast views only in personal capacity, ensuring they do not criticize Government policy or embarrass relations between Governments.

Gifts and Dowry

Gifts:

·         Can accept gifts from relatives/friends up to ₹25,000 with reporting duty

·         Cannot accept gifts over ₹5,000 from others without sanction

·         Avoid lavish or frequent hospitality from those with official dealings.

Dowry is strictly prohibited (giving, taking, or abetting).

Employment and Business

Cannot engage in:

·         Trade, business, or private employment without permission.

·         Activities involving NGOs aided by Government or international organizations.

Can engage in honorary social, literary, or sports activities if official work doesn’t suffer.

Must report if family member runs a business or agency

Property and Assets

Must Submit:

·         Initial and annual property returns (movable and immovable).

·         Prior intimation or sanction for transactions exceeding two months’ basic pay.

·         Details of property acquired abroad or transactions with foreigners need Government approval.

Financial Conduct

• Avoid speculation in stocks and investments that may cause embarrassment.
• Cannot lend or borrow money from people with whom they have official dealings.
• Must manage personal finances to avoid debt or insolvency.

Behavior and Lifestyle

Must not:

·         Employ children below 14 years.

·         Be under the influence of intoxicating substances during duty or in public.

·         Bring political or other influence for personal gain.

·         Should observe cultural norms, promote environmental preservation, and follow the two-child policy.

Other Key Provisions

• Vindication (defending) of official acts through press or courts only with Government approval.
• Marriage restrictions: Cannot marry if already married (unless personal law allows with approval).
• Must report if spouse is a foreign national.
• No subletting of Government accommodation.
• No unauthorised communication of official information.

Foreign Contacts & Permissions

• Exercise discretion in dealing with foreign nationals or missions.
• Avoid over-patronisation (Closeness), gifts, or hospitality.

Need prior Government permission to:

·         Attend foreign embassy functions.

·         Join foreign cultural organisations or language classes.

·         Accept foreign fellowships or scholarships.