In a significant development for job aspirants across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the A&N Administration for their decision to retain the existing upper age limit for direct recruitment to Group C posts under the Union Territory government.
The announcement follows weeks of public concern over a proposed reduction in the age limit for various Group B (Non-Gazetted) and Group C positions, which would have excluded a large section of qualified youth from eligibility. The administration had reportedly considered lowering the upper age threshold to 27 years for posts such as Surveyor in the Revenue Department and Field Worker/Mazdoor in the Health Department.
MP Ray had earlier written to the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Lieutenant Governor Admiral (Retd.) D.K. Joshi, urging them to intervene and preserve the existing age criteria. In his letter, he highlighted the unique socio-economic challenges faced by island residents, including limited access to higher education, lack of private-sector employment, and delayed graduation timelines due to geographic isolation.
He argued that the current upper age limit of 38 years—along with a five-year relaxation for local candidates—was essential to ensure fair access to government employment. Citing Article 309 of the Constitution, Ray emphasized that Union Territories have the authority to frame recruitment rules tailored to local conditions.
The MP also referenced precedents from other regions: Ladakh UT has fixed the upper age limit at 40 years for similar posts, while Goa, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh allow limits ranging from 42 to 46 years for non-uniform government roles.
The decision to maintain the existing age limit has been welcomed by youth groups and civil society organizations across the islands. Many see it as a reaffirmation of the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and equitable opportunity.
MP Ray reiterated his appreciation to all stakeholders involved and pledged to continue advocating for policies that reflect the lived realities of island residents. The move is expected to benefit thousands of job seekers preparing for upcoming recruitment cycles in 2025–26.
