Application for Field Service in the Army Postal Service (APS)
The Army Postal Service (APS) offers an exceptional opportunity for employees of the Department of Posts to volunteer for field service. This guide provides a detailed overview of the application process, medical screening, and the benefits for those who choose to serve.
Application Process for Department of Posts Employees
Step 1: Volunteer Application
- Interested employees must complete the “Volunteer Application Form,” which includes Parts I and II, while Parts III and IV are left blank.
- The form requires personal details, educational qualifications, present appointment, and service history. A declaration regarding marital status and conditions of service must also be signed by the applicant.
Step 2: Submission to Divisional Head
- The completed application form is submitted to the Divisional Head. The Divisional Head scrutinizes and recommends the application, preparing a Nominal Roll of recommended volunteers.
- The applications, along with supporting documents (e.g., last month’s pay slip, first page of the service book), are forwarded to the Officer In-charge (OIC) APS Records by 31st December, 30th April, or 31st August each year.
Step 3: Processing by OIC APS Records
- The OIC APS Records checks the applications and, if complete, enters the volunteer’s name in the Field Force List. Incomplete applications are returned for rectification.
- Once processed, a confirmation letter is sent to specified ZROs/AROs to arrange for the volunteer’s medical screening.
Step 4: Medical Screening
- Volunteers undergo medical screening at specified AROs/ZROs in April, August, or December.
- Medically fit volunteers are dispatched to the APS Wing for training.
Step 5: Final Dispatch
- Upon receiving the confirmation of medical fitness, Divisional Heads relieve volunteers to report to the concerned AROs/ZROs for final dispatch to the APS Wing for training.
Medical Screening Cycle
Medical screening of volunteers is conducted thrice a year in April, August, and December. The process includes:
- Submission of applications by 30th November, 31st March, or 31st July.
- Submission of recommended lists to OIC APS Records by 31st December, 30th April, or 31st August.
- Medical screening at AROs/ZROs, followed by dispatch of medically fit volunteers to the APS Wing.
Benefits for Department of Posts Employees in APS
Pay and Allowances
- Employees may receive pay upgrades when opting for Army Pay Scales, often resulting in significant salary hikes compared to civil pay scales.
Travel Concessions
- Free LTC (Leave Travel Concession) for duty station to home station travel once a year, covering self, spouse, children, and dependents.
- Free All India LTC once every two years under similar conditions.
- Additional LTC if posted in field stations, and 50% concession on train travel for self and family.
Army Group Insurance (AGI)
- Volunteers are covered under AGI, ensuring financial security and benefits during their service period.
Conclusion
Volunteering for the APS is a prestigious opportunity for Department of Posts employees, providing them with a unique chance to serve in challenging and rewarding roles while enjoying enhanced benefits and allowances. By following the structured application process and meeting medical requirements, employees can embark on a fulfilling career in the Army Postal Service. For more information and to access the application form, employees are encouraged to contact their Divisional Head or the APS Records Office.
For any queries, you can reach APS Records at tee.kamp62@nic.in or APS Wing at wgcdr.apswg@indiapost.gov.in.
