CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964: Complete Guide for Central Government Employees
All 25 rules of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 explained in plain language — the Rule 3 code of ethics, political activity, gifts and dowry, property declarations, private trade, and what counts as misconduct — plus 40 FAQs.
Staffcorner Legal Disclaimer
This guide is prepared for educational and reference purposes using the official CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) instructions and Government Office Memorandums. Every effort has been made to keep it accurate and up to date. However, wherever any conflict arises, the latest orders issued by DoPT shall prevail.
What this guide covers
- What Are the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964?
- Rule 3 — The Foundation of Good Conduct
- Political Activity, Media & Criticism of Government (Rules 4–10)
- Gifts, Subscriptions, Dowry & Financial Conduct (Rules 11–13A, 16–17)
- Property & Assets Declaration (Rules 18, 18-A)
- Private Life & Personal Conduct (Rules 14, 15, 15-A, 19–22A)
- Interpretation, Delegation & Repeal (Rules 23–25)
- What Counts as “Misconduct”?
- 40 Frequently Asked Questions
Chapter 1 — What Are the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964?
The CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 are the statutory code of ethics for Central Government employees, framed under Article 309 of the Constitution, which empowers the appropriate Legislature (and, until it acts, the President) to regulate recruitment and conditions of service for public services and posts connected with the affairs of the Union.
Evolution: An early set of conduct rules was first formulated in 1955. Following the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee, these were revised and reissued as the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964.
Why conduct rules exist: A government servant is responsible both to the Government and to the public they deal with. The rules exist to preserve the sense of discipline that comes with government service, alongside the privileges that come with it.
Structure: The Rules are made up of 25 Rules in total. Being statutory under Article 309, they carry legal force; where doubts arise, they are clarified through Government Instructions (commonly referred to as “GOI decisions” in this guide).
Date of effect: Notified by the Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, on 30 November 1964, and effective the same day.
Quick Fact — Who is NOT covered: The Conduct Rules apply to all Central Government servants except:
- Railway employees (governed by separate railway conduct rules)
- Members of All India Services (who have their own AIS Conduct Rules)
- Cases specifically excluded by order of the President
Chapter 2 — Rule 3: The Foundation of Good Conduct
Rule 3 is the most operative rule in the entire Code — its fundamental requirements are integrity, honesty, efficiency and good behaviour. It also functions as a residuary rule: where no other specific rule of conduct applies to a situation, Rule 3 still does.
Sub-Rule (1) — The 21-point code
Every government servant is required, at all times, to:
- Maintain absolute integrity
- Maintain devotion to duty
- Do nothing unbecoming of a government servant
- Commit to and uphold the supremacy of the Constitution and democratic values
- Defend and uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, public order, decency and morality
- Maintain high ethical standards and honesty
- Maintain political neutrality
- Promote merit, fairness and impartiality in the discharge of duties
- Maintain accountability and transparency
- Maintain responsiveness to the public, particularly to weaker sections
- Maintain courtesy and good behaviour with the public
- Take decisions solely in public interest, and use public resources efficiently, effectively and economically
- Declare private interests relating to official duties and resolve conflicts in a way that protects the public interest
- Not place themselves under financial or other obligations to any individual or organisation that could influence performance of official duties
- Not misuse their position, or take decisions, to derive financial or material benefit for themselves, their family or friends
- Make choices, decisions and recommendations on merit alone
- Act with fairness and impartiality, without discriminating against anyone — particularly the poor and under-privileged
- Refrain from anything contrary to law, rules, regulations or established practice
- Maintain discipline and implement lawful orders duly communicated to them
- Maintain confidentiality as required by law, particularly regarding information whose disclosure could prejudice India’s sovereignty, security, or economic or strategic interests
- Perform and discharge duties with the highest degree of professionalism and dedication
Sub-Rule (2) — Supervision and official direction
- An employee in a supervisory post must take all possible steps to ensure the integrity and devotion to duty of their subordinates.
- An employee should act on their own best judgement in performing official responsibilities, except when acting under the direction of an official superior.
- A superior’s direction should normally be in writing. Where an oral direction is unavoidable, the superior should follow it up in writing soon after.
- An employee who receives an oral direction should seek written confirmation as early as possible — and it is then the superior’s duty to confirm it in writing.
Rules 3-A, 3-B and 3-C
- Rule 3-A deals with promptness and courtesy in dealing with the public.
- Rule 3-B requires observance of the Government’s policies in specified matters.
- Rule 3-C prohibits sexual harassment of working women, and today operates alongside the separate Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. Sexual harassment under the rule covers physical contact and advances, demanding sexual favours, sexually coloured remarks, showing pornography, and any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature.
GOI decisions under Rule 3 clarify a few practical points: a dishonest employee should not be placed where there is considerable scope for discretion; employees should observe due courtesy in dealings with MPs and MLAs; and permission from the competent authority is required before leaving one’s station or headquarters.
Chapter 3 — Political Activity, Media & Criticism of Government (Rules 4–10)
| Rule | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Rule 4 | Employment of near relatives — an employee cannot use their influence to procure employment (including apprenticeships) for family members in companies or firms. On first appointment, employees (other than Group ‘D’) must furnish information about their close relations. |
| Rule 5 | Taking part in politics and elections — no participation in politics or canvassing, and family members should not be permitted to participate either. GOI decisions extend this to not attending political meetings or displaying party flags at home. |
| Rule 6 | Joining associations — an employee cannot join any association whose objects or activities are prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India, public order, or morality. Violations attract disciplinary action by the Head of the Department. |
| Rule 7 | Demonstrations and strikes — no participation in any demonstration or strike prejudicial to Government interests. A “strike” includes refusal to work, stoppage, or slowing down of work by a group. “Gherao” of a public servant is also prohibited. A registered trade union functioning in a factory, however, can lawfully give strike notice. |
| Rule 8 | Connection with press or other media — no conducting or participating in editing/managing a newspaper, periodical, or electronic media. Publishing a book is allowed, provided it carries a disclaimer that the views are personal and not the Government’s. |
| Rule 9 | Criticism of Government — employees must abstain from publicly criticising Government policy, though trade union office-bearers may give bona fide expression of views in the interest of workers. Employees should avoid being signatories to resolutions or statements passed by service associations/unions/federations on such issues. |
| Rule 10 | Evidence before a committee or authority — prior Government sanction is needed to give evidence before any inquiry, except enquiries before an authority appointed by the Government, judicial enquiries, departmental enquiries, or appearing before the Pay Commission on behalf of a service association. |
Chapter 4 — Gifts, Subscriptions, Dowry & Financial Conduct (Rules 11–13A, 16–17)
Rule 11 — Unauthorised communication of information. No government servant may communicate, directly or indirectly, an official document or information to anyone not authorised to receive it. It remains every employee’s duty to safeguard classified information. (A related GOI decision: it is not necessary to disclose the identity of a superior officer who made adverse remarks.)
Rule 12 — Subscriptions. No soliciting or accepting contributions toward any fund without prior sanction of the Government or prescribed authority — except recognised causes such as Flag Day collections or the National Foundation for Communal Harmony.
Rule 13 — Gifts. No government servant, or family member on their behalf, may accept any gift — in cash or kind — beyond the prescribed limits, and lavish or frequent hospitality from individuals or commercial/industrial firms should be avoided. “Gift” is defined broadly to include free transport, boarding, lodging, or any other pecuniary advantage.
When must a gift be reported?
On occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, funerals or religious functions (where receiving gifts is customary), a report is required if the value exceeds:
| Group | Reporting Threshold |
|---|---|
| Group A | ₹25,000 |
| Group B | ₹15,000 |
| Group C | ₹7,500 |
In other cases (2019 revision), a report is required if the value exceeds:
| Group | Reporting Threshold |
|---|---|
| Group A | ₹5,000 |
| Group B | ₹3,000 |
| Group C | ₹1,000 |
| Group D | ₹500 |
Rule 13-A — Dowry. No giving, taking, or abetting the giving or taking of dowry, and no demanding dowry, directly or indirectly, from the parent or guardian of a bride or bridegroom. A violation also breaches the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, and invites disciplinary proceedings.
Rule 16 — Investments, lending and borrowing. No speculation in stocks, shares or other investments, though occasional investment is allowed. No investment — by the employee or, through them, by a family member — that is likely to embarrass or influence them in discharging official duties. No lending, borrowing, or depositing money as principal or agent with any person, firm or private company, and no lending money at interest. A related GOI decision advises officers not to approach subordinates to stand surety for loans taken from private sources, whether for themselves, relatives or friends, and requires prior sanction before entering into property transactions.
Rule 17 — Insolvency and habitual indebtedness. Employees must manage their private affairs to avoid habitual indebtedness or insolvency. If legal proceedings are instituted for debt recovery or insolvency, the full facts must be reported to the Government forthwith. Salary attachment continuing for more than two years brings this rule into play.
Chapter 5 — Property & Assets Declaration (Rules 18, 18-A)
Rule 18 requires every government servant, on first appointment to any service or post, to submit a return of assets and liabilities — covering immovable property; shares, debentures and cash including bank deposits; other movable property; and debts and other liabilities — whether inherited, owned, acquired, or held on lease or mortgage.
Staffcorner Tip — Annual Immovable Property Return (AIPR): Under Rule 18(1)(ii), Group A and Group B officers must submit their AIPR before 31 January each year. Mark this date on your calendar — it’s an annual, recurring compliance requirement, not a one-time filing.
Beyond the initial and annual returns:
- No acquiring or disposing of immovable property (by lease, mortgage, purchase, sale or gift) without the prior knowledge of the prescribed authority — and prior sanction, not just knowledge, is required where the other party to the transaction has official dealings with the employee.
- Movable property transactions must be reported if their value exceeds two months’ basic pay. “Movable property” is defined broadly — jewellery, insurance, all loans or advances, electronics, vehicles, and similar assets are all included.
Rule 18-A places additional restrictions on acquiring or disposing of immovable property situated outside India (by purchase, mortgage, lease, gift or otherwise), and on entering into transactions with any foreigner, foreign Government, or foreign organisation.
Chapter 6 — Private Life & Personal Conduct (Rules 14, 15, 15-A, 19–22A)
Rule 14 — Public demonstrations in honour. No accepting a complimentary or valedictory address, testimonial, or attending a meeting/entertainment held in one’s own honour, without prior Government sanction. GOI clarifications add that awards or monetary benefits instituted by private trusts/foundations should not be accepted, and prior permission is needed to accept international awards.
Rule 15 — Private trade or employment. Without prior sanction, an employee may not: engage directly or indirectly in trade or business; hold an elective office; canvass for an insurance agency; participate in managing a bank, company, etc.; or take part in sponsored radio/TV or private programmes except in an official capacity.
Exceptions — no permission needed for:
- Honorary work of a social or charitable nature
- Occasional work of a literary, artistic or scientific character
- Participation in sports activities
- Registration, promotion or management of a literary, scientific or charitable society, or of a club
Employees must also report if a family member is engaged in a trade/business or manages an insurance agency, and may not accept a fee for work done for any private or public body. As a GOI decision notes, acting as an Examiner for papers set by a recognised University is allowed as part-time work; other part-time employment after office hours is ordinarily not.
Rule 15-A — Government accommodation. No sub-letting, leasing, or otherwise allowing occupation of allotted government accommodation by anyone else. Once an allotment is cancelled, the employee must vacate within the time limit prescribed by the allotting authority.
Rule 19 — Vindication of acts and character. No recourse to a Court or the Press to vindicate an official act, without prior Government sanction — but this does not stop an employee from vindicating their private character or a private-capacity act. GOI orders add that no action is taken on anonymous or pseudonymous complaints, that grievances arising from employment should ordinarily be pursued through official redress channels before approaching a court, and that a government servant convicted in a criminal court must inform their official superiors.
Rule 20 — Canvassing / outside influence. No bringing political or other outside influence to bear on a superior authority to further one’s own service interests. GOI decisions discourage relatives from representing an employee’s service matters for the same reason.
Rule 21 — Restriction regarding marriage. No entering into a marriage with a person who has a spouse living, except where such a marriage is permissible under the personal law applicable to the employee and other grounds exist. An employee who marries a person of a nationality other than Indian must promptly intimate the Government. GOI decisions clarify that the bigamy restriction applies equally to female government servants, and new entrants must declare whether they have more than one spouse.
Rule 22 — Intoxicating drinks and drugs. Employees must strictly abide by local laws on intoxicating drinks or drugs; must not be under the influence during duty; must not consume such substances in a public place; and must not use them to excess. A GOI clarification notes that drinking within one’s own lodging room in a hotel does not attract this rule.
Rule 22-A — Child labour. No employing any child below 14 years of age to work.
Chapter 7 — Interpretation, Delegation & Repeal (Rules 23–25)
Rule 23 — Interpretation. Any question on interpreting the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 is referred to the Government, whose decision is final. Where the Central Government is satisfied that a rule causes undue hardship in a particular case, it may, by order, relax or dispense with that rule’s requirements to the extent necessary for a just and equitable outcome.
Rule 24 — Delegation of powers. The Government may delegate any of the powers exercisable under these rules to any officer or authority specified in an order.
Rule 25 — Repeal and savings. Provides for the repeal of rules that existed before these Conduct Rules, while saving actions already taken under them.
Chapter 8 — What Counts as “Misconduct”?
Misconduct has no single precise statutory definition. Its meaning takes its colour from the context — the nature of the duty involved, the delinquency in its performance, and its effect on discipline. Broadly, misconduct involves conduct that is improper, wrong or unlawful, and wilful in character — a forbidden act or a transgression of an established rule of action. Critically, it does not cover a mere error of judgement, carelessness, or negligence in performing a duty on its own. How far the term extends in a given case has to be read against the subject-matter and context involved, and the public purpose the relevant rule is meant to serve.
Illustrations of conduct that may amount to misconduct include:
- Conduct prejudicial to the interests of the Government as employer, or that undermines trust in the employee’s faithfulness
- Habitual neglect or negligence of work
- Abusive conduct, or disturbing the peace of the place of employment
- Wilful insubordination or disobedience — alone or with others — to a lawful and reasonable order of a superior
- Infidelity, unfaithfulness, dishonesty, untrustworthiness, theft and fraud
- Participating in a strike, picketing, or “gherao”
- Riotous or disorderly behaviour
- Habitual late attendance
- Conduct inconsistent or incompatible with the due and peaceful discharge of one’s duties
Staffcorner Note: The Conduct Rules define the standard of behaviour expected; what happens when that standard is breached — the disciplinary process, penalties, and appeals — is governed by a separate set of rules. See our CCS (CCA) Rules 1965 guide for that process.
Chapter 9 — 40 Frequently Asked Questions
These practical questions are based on the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 and the related Government instructions covered above. Tap any question to reveal the answer.
A. General & Applicability
Who is covered by the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964?
All Central Government servants, except Railway employees, Members of All India Services (who have their own separate conduct rules), and any cases specifically excluded by order of the President.
When did the CCS (Conduct) Rules come into effect?
They were notified by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 30 November 1964, and came into effect the same day.
Do I need to follow these rules only during office hours?
No. Rule 3 requires a government servant to maintain the prescribed standards of conduct in both their official and private capacities.
What happens if no specific rule covers a situation?
Rule 3 operates as a residuary rule — its requirement of integrity, devotion to duty and good behaviour applies even where no other specific rule is applicable.
Can the Government relax a rule if it causes hardship?
Yes. Under Rule 23, where the Central Government is satisfied that a rule causes undue hardship in a particular case, it may relax or dispense with its requirements to deal with the case justly and equitably.
B. Rule 3 — Integrity & Code of Conduct
What are the core requirements under Rule 3?
Every government servant must at all times maintain absolute integrity, maintain devotion to duty, and do nothing unbecoming of a government servant — the foundation the other obligations in Sub-rule (1) build on.
Can I act on an oral instruction from my superior?
Yes, but directions are normally expected in writing; where an oral direction is unavoidable, the superior should confirm it in writing soon after, and the employee should seek that written confirmation.
Am I expected to report a conflict of interest?
Yes. Sub-rule (1)(xiii) requires declaring private interests relating to official duties and taking steps to resolve any conflict in a way that protects the public interest.
What does Rule 3-C deal with?
Rule 3-C prohibits sexual harassment of working women, and is applied today alongside the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Is political neutrality actually a rule, or just an expectation?
It’s an explicit obligation — Sub-rule (1)(vii) requires every government servant to maintain political neutrality at all times.
C. Political Activity & Public Expression
Can I put up a political party flag at my residence?
No. Government instructions under Rule 5 make clear that employees should not display political party flags, even at home.
Can I write an op-ed criticising a government policy?
Generally no — Rule 9 requires abstaining from publicly criticising Government policies, though trade union office-bearers may give bona fide expression of views in the interest of workers.
Can I publish a book?
Yes. Rule 8 permits publishing a book, provided it carries a disclaimer that the views expressed are the author’s own and not the Government’s.
Can I participate in a strike?
No. Rule 7 prohibits participating in any strike or demonstration prejudicial to Government interests — though a registered trade union functioning in a factory can lawfully give strike notice.
Do I need permission to give evidence before a departmental or judicial inquiry?
No. Rule 10’s requirement of prior Government sanction does not apply to judicial enquiries, departmental enquiries, or appearances before an authority appointed by Government — such as the Pay Commission on behalf of a service association.
Can my family members attend political rallies?
Government instructions under Rule 5 extend the expectation of political neutrality to family members as well — they should not be permitted to participate.
Can I join any employees’ association I like?
Only associations whose objects and activities are not prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India, public order, or morality — Rule 6 makes joining a prohibited association a matter for disciplinary action by the Head of the Department.
D. Gifts, Subscriptions & Dowry
Do I have to report every gift I receive?
Only gifts above the prescribed value. On occasions like weddings or religious functions, the reporting thresholds range from ₹7,500 (Group C) to ₹25,000 (Group A); in other cases, the thresholds are lower — ₹500 (Group D) to ₹5,000 (Group A).
Does “gift” only mean cash or a physical item?
No. Rule 13 defines “gift” broadly to include free transport, boarding, lodging, or any other pecuniary advantage.
Can I accept dowry-related gifts at my own wedding?
No. Rule 13-A prohibits giving, taking, or abetting the giving or taking of dowry in any form; a violation also breaches the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, and can lead to disciplinary proceedings.
Can I raise funds from the public for a cause I care about?
Not without sanction — Rule 12 restricts soliciting or accepting contributions for fund-raising, though collections for recognised causes like Flag Day or the National Foundation for Communal Harmony are permitted.
Can I accept hospitality from a business contact?
You should avoid lavish or frequent hospitality from individuals, or from industrial or commercial firms and organisations — particularly where they have official dealings with you.
E. Investments, Property & Assets
Do I need to declare my assets when I join government service?
Yes. Rule 18 requires every government servant, on first appointment, to submit a return of assets and liabilities — covering immovable property, shares, debentures, bank deposits, and other movable property or debts.
Is there a yearly property declaration too?
Yes, for Group A and B officers. Rule 18(1)(ii) requires an Annual Immovable Property Return (AIPR) to be submitted before 31 January each year.
Can I buy or sell property without informing anyone?
Not without the prior knowledge of the prescribed authority — and prior sanction, specifically, is required if the other party to the transaction has official dealings with you.
Is there a threshold for reporting movable property transactions?
Yes. A movable property transaction must be reported if its value exceeds two months’ basic pay; “movable property” is defined broadly to include jewellery, insurance, loans and advances, electronics, and vehicles.
Can I own property outside India?
Only within the restrictions of Rule 18-A, which governs acquisition and disposal of immovable property situated outside India and transactions with foreigners or foreign entities.
Can I occasionally invest in the stock market?
Occasional investment is allowed under Rule 16, but speculation in stocks, shares or other investments is not — and no investment should be one that could embarrass or influence you in your official duties.
Can I stand as a guarantor for a colleague’s personal loan?
Government instructions discourage this — officers are advised not to approach subordinates to stand surety for loans taken from private sources, whether for themselves, relatives or friends.
F. Private Trade, Employment & Personal Life
Can I take up a part-time job after office hours?
Ordinarily no, without prior sanction under Rule 15 — though acting as an examiner for papers set by a recognised university is specifically permitted as an exception.
Can I do social or charitable work in my free time?
Yes. Rule 15 exempts honorary work of a social or charitable nature, occasional literary, artistic or scientific work, and participation in sports, from the general restriction on private employment.
Can I sub-let my government quarters?
No. Rule 15-A prohibits sub-letting, leasing, or otherwise allowing anyone else to occupy government accommodation allotted to you, and you must vacate within the prescribed time once your allotment is cancelled.
Can I go to court over a service-related grievance?
You’re expected to first exhaust the normal official channels of redress. Rule 19 also requires prior Government sanction before approaching a court or the press to vindicate an official act, though you may freely vindicate your private character or private acts.
Can I marry someone who has been married before?
Yes — Rule 21 only restricts marrying a person who has a spouse currently living, subject to exceptions where such a marriage is permissible under your personal law and other grounds exist.
What if I marry a foreign national?
You are required to intimate the fact to the Government without delay.
Can I have a drink at a hotel while on official tour?
A Government clarification under Rule 22 notes that drinking within your own lodging room in a hotel does not attract the rule — the restriction is on being under the influence during duty or consuming in a public place.
Can I employ a 13-year-old as domestic help?
No. Rule 22-A prohibits employing any child below 14 years of age.
G. Interpretation & Disciplinary Matters
Who decides if there’s a dispute about how a rule should be interpreted?
Under Rule 23, any question on interpretation is referred to the Government, whose decision is final.
Is carelessness the same as misconduct?
Not on its own. Misconduct generally involves wilful, improper, or unlawful behaviour — a mere error of judgement, carelessness, or negligence in performing a duty does not, by itself, amount to misconduct.
Can the Government delegate its powers under these rules?
Yes. Rule 24 allows the Government to delegate any of the powers exercisable under the Conduct Rules to any officer or authority specified in an order.
Staffcorner Note: This FAQ section will be expanded periodically whenever new DoPT clarifications or Office Memoranda on the Conduct Rules are issued.
Related Staffcorner Guides
For a complete understanding of Central Government service matters, you may also find these guides useful:
CCS (CCA) Rules 1965
What happens when a Conduct Rule is breached — the disciplinary process, penalties and appeals, explained chapter-wise.
CCS (Leave) Rules 1972
Complete chapter-wise guide to leave entitlements and rules for Central Government employees.
8th CPC News
Track the latest updates on the 8th Central Pay Commission — composition, terms of reference and timeline.
Official Sources & Related References
This guide has been prepared after carefully studying the official CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 and related Government instructions. The objective is to explain the Rules in plain English without changing their legal meaning.
Primary Reference Documents
- CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964 (Department of Personnel & Training)
- DoPT Office Memorandums and clarifications on the Conduct Rules
- Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (referenced under Rule 3-C)
- Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 (referenced under Rule 13-A)
Staffcorner Editorial Note
We regularly review this article whenever DoPT issues a new Office Memorandum relating to the Conduct Rules. If you notice any factual discrepancy, kindly inform us through the Staffcorner contact page so the article can be updated for the benefit of all Central Government employees.