Rule 12 — CCS

Rule 12: Subscriptions Government servants must not engage in fundraising, contributions, or solicitations for any external cause without proper authorization.

Employees are prohibited from: Raising funds or collecting subscriptions for charitable, religious, or political purposes in government offices or official premises. Soliciting financial assistance from subordinates, contractors, or individuals with official dealings. Contributing to funds or organizations that engage in political or antigovernment activities.

However, employees may contribute to officially approved causes such as government welfare programs, relief funds, and officially designated charitable organizations. Any deviation from this rule requires explicit approval from the competent authority21 . Collection of subscription for a compassionate ground by registered Association/Union is allowed only with previous permission and as an exception. Such collection is not allowed to an individual public servant.

20 Ibid., Rule 11. 21 Ibid., Rule 12. This chapter emphasizes the importance of restraint in public expression, protection of confidential government information, and restrictions on financial solicitations. Government servants are expected to conduct themselves with discipline, avoid public criticism of policies, and maintain the confidentiality of official matters.

Gifts, Business, and Financial Conduct Government servants must uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct in all financial and business matters. The CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, establish clear guidelines on the acceptance of gifts, prohibition of dowry, involvement in business activities, and financial discipline. These rules are designed to ensure that government employees remain free from corruption, conflicts of interest, and financial liabilities that may affect their official duties22

(a) Gp `A’ & B – Rs 5,000/-

(b) Gp `C’ – Rs 2,000/- In cases where refusal of a gift may cause embarrassment, the employee may accept it but must immediately declare it to the government and seek guidance on its disposal.

22 Government of India. (1964). Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, Rules 13–17. Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. 23 Ibid., Rule 13.

Government servants are required to exercise caution when accepting gifts to avoid any perception of favoritism or undue influence.

Employees shall not accept gifts from individuals or organizations with whom they have official dealings, except in limited circumstances where the gift is of nominal value and does not compromise integrity or cast upon any obligation on the Government servant for reciprocal or preferential treatment. Gifts include cash, jewelry, hospitality, travel benefits, or any valuable item received as a token of appreciation23 .

Under prescribed limits, government servants may accept gifts on occasions such as weddings, religious ceremonies, or official functions. However, if the value of the gift exceeds the permissible limit, the employee must report it to the competent authority.

Receiving of gift is allowed during special occasions e.g. self-marriage, anniversary, etc as per the following rates. If the amount is more, complete details are required to be reported upon: -

(a) Gp `A’ – Upto Rs 25,000/-

(b) Gp `B’ – Upto Rs 15,000/-

(c) Gp `C’ – Upto Rs 7,500/- On Other Occasions, prescribed limit for receiving the gift is given below. If the amount is more, previous permission will be required:-

Government servants must adhere to laws prohibiting the exchange of dowry in marriage transactions. No government employee shall demand, give, or receive dowry directly or indirectly, as defined under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. Employees found engaging in dowry-related practices are subject to strict disciplinary action, including dismissal from service24 .

To maintain public trust, government servants must ensure that their conduct in personal matters reflects the principles of equality and fairness upheld by the government.