The Modi government has also asked all ministries to take prior approval of the Prime Minister-led Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) before appointing Officer on Special Duty as their personal staff.
“Prior approval of the ACC is required for appointment in the minister's personal staff (other than Private Secretary) at Deputy Secretary and above level.
Further, for appointments as Private Secretary, ACC approval is required for all levels,” it said, asking the secretaries of all ministries to follow the instructions.
The DoPT's order is seen as an attempt to discourage ministers from appointing private persons, including their acquaintances, friends or relatives, in their personal staff.
