Rule 179 - Consultant Hiring | KartavyaDesk
Original Rule Text
Rule 179 This chapter contains the fundamental principles applicable to all Ministries or Departments regarding engagement of consultant(s). Detailed instructions to this effect may be issued by the concerned Ministries or Departments. However, the Ministries or Departments shall ensure that they do not contravene the basic rules contained in this chapter.
What This Means
Rule 179 of the General Financial Rules (GFR), 2017, is all about hiring consultants in government departments. Think of it as the overarching guideline for bringing in external experts. It essentially states that while each Ministry or Department can create its own detailed instructions on how to hire consultants, these instructions *must* align with the fundamental principles laid out in the chapter of the GFR where Rule 179 resides. This ensures consistency and prevents departments from going rogue with their consultant hiring practices.
In simpler terms, this rule sets the stage for a standardized approach to consultant engagement across the government. It affects all Ministries and Departments, and therefore all government employees involved in the process of hiring consultants, from initial identification of need to final contract negotiation and management. It's a reminder that while flexibility is allowed at the departmental level, the core principles of fairness, transparency, and value for money must always be upheld.
This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.
Key Points
- •Rule 179 provides the foundational principles for engaging consultants in government.
- •Ministries/Departments can issue their own detailed instructions for consultant hiring.
- •Departmental instructions must not contradict the basic rules contained in the relevant chapter of the GFR.
- •The rule promotes consistency and adherence to core principles in consultant engagement across the government.
- •It applies to all Ministries/Departments and employees involved in the consultant hiring process.
Practical Example
The Ministry of Rural Development needs expert advice on implementing a new rural electrification scheme. They decide to hire a consultant specializing in renewable energy. According to Rule 179, the Ministry can develop its own specific guidelines for this hiring process, including the selection criteria, payment terms, and reporting requirements. However, these guidelines must comply with the fundamental principles outlined in the GFR, such as ensuring a transparent selection process, obtaining competitive bids, and justifying the consultant's fees. For instance, if the Ministry plans to pay a consultant, Mr. Sharma, ₹5,00,000 without seeking competitive bids, it would violate the spirit of Rule 179, even if their internal guidelines allow it. They must ensure that the selection process is fair and transparent, and that the fees are reasonable for the services provided.
This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a department's internal rules contradict the GFR regarding consultant hiring?▼
Does Rule 179 specify the exact procedures for hiring consultants?▼
Where can I find the 'basic rules' mentioned in Rule 179?▼
Is Rule 179 applicable to all types of consultants?▼
What are some examples of 'fundamental principles' that departmental instructions must adhere to?▼
This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.
Test Your Knowledge
Question 1 of 3
According to Rule 179 of the General Financial Rules, 2017, which of the following is the primary responsibility of Ministries or Departments regarding the engagement of consultants?
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