SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Department has issued a comprehensive set of instructions to streamline the processing and monitoring of study leave and other time-bound service matters, directing all institutions under its control to strengthen accountability and ensure timely disposal of such cases.
In Circular No. 05-JK(HME) of 2026, dated July 21, 2026, the department said delays in processing study leave proposals and other time-bound service matters had led to administrative complications, procedural lapses, grievances and avoidable litigation, necessitating a stronger monitoring mechanism.
The circular, issued by Commissioner/Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department, M. Raju, IAS, mandates all Administrative Heads, Principals of Government Medical and Dental Colleges, Directors and Heads of Institutions to process and forward study leave proposals and other time-bound service matters promptly, ensuring that all required documents, recommendations and remarks are complete.
To improve oversight, every institution has been directed to maintain a dedicated register or database recording the receipt, processing, forwarding and final disposal of such cases. Institutions have also been asked to designate a nodal officer to monitor progress and maintain records.
The department has instructed that any delay beyond the prescribed or reasonable timeframe must be documented, clearly stating the reasons and identifying the level at which the matter remained pending. Heads of institutions have been directed to conduct monthly reviews of all pending study leave and other time-bound service matters to ensure their expeditious disposal.
The circular further requires that cases requiring approval from higher authorities be submitted well in advance to avoid procedural delays. It also directs institutions to immediately report any instance of unauthorised absence, departure for higher studies without prior approval, or failure to follow prescribed procedures to the Administrative Department for appropriate action.
The department warned that responsibility for delays, omissions or procedural lapses would be fixed at the appropriate level and corrective measures instituted to prevent recurrence. It added that any deviation resulting in undue delay, administrative lapse or failure to comply with the prescribed procedure would be viewed seriously and could invite action under the relevant rules.
