📋 Certificate of Undertaking for Air Travel
ICMR Circular - Government Account Air Booking & TA/DA Bills Compliance
📌 Overview
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued a critical circular regarding strict compliance requirements for Certificate of Undertaking and TA/DA (Travelling Allowance and Dearness Allowance) bills in connection with air travel booked on government account. This circular ensures proper documentation and verification procedures for government employees utilizing official air travel through government-sanctioned channels.
🎯 Importance for Government Employees
For central government employees, understanding and adhering to these compliance requirements is essential when undertaking official air travel on government account. The certificate of undertaking serves as a formal declaration that ensures:
- Transparent documentation of air travel bookings
- Proper accountability in government expenditure
- Compliance with financial regulations
- Valid substantiation of travelling allowance claims
- Prevention of misuse of government travel facilities
📝 Certificate of Undertaking - Key Requirements
The certificate of undertaking is a mandatory document that government employees must submit when booking air tickets on government account. This document typically includes certifications regarding:
Essential Certifications
💼 TA/DA Bill Submission Requirements
When submitting TA/DA (Travelling Allowance and Dearness Allowance) bills along with air tickets booked on government account, employees must ensure:
Required Documents
- Original Air Ticket: Copy of the actual air ticket or e-ticket confirmation
- Boarding Pass: Both onward and return journey boarding passes
- Certificate of Undertaking: Duly filled and signed certificate
- Supporting Documentation: Hotel bills, local transport receipts, and other relevant expense vouchers
- Official Authorization: Approval letter for the official tour or mission
Compliance Checklist
✅ Important Compliance Points
For Air Travel Booking
- Air tickets must be booked through authorized travel agents designated by the government
- Only economy class tickets are admissible for official travel as per government norms
- The shortest route must be selected for cost effectiveness
- Exchange vouchers or credit facility booking details must be properly documented
For TA/DA Bill Settlement
- Boarding passes (both ways) are mandatory for air travel claims
- Daily allowance cannot be claimed for dates of casual leave
- Hotel accommodation must be at scheduled tariff rates where applicable
- Road mileage claims require supporting distance proof
- All claims must be within the prescribed time frame
💰 Tax Implications and TDS Compliance
As per Income Tax Circular 713, no TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) is required when payments are made to airlines or authorized travel agents for purchase of air tickets for individual air travel. However:
- Proper documentation must be maintained for audit purposes
- Government account usage must be clearly established
- All receipts and invoices should be preserved
🎁 Benefits of Strict Compliance
Adhering to these ICMR circular requirements provides multiple advantages:
- Faster approval of TA/DA bills without queries or delays
- Smooth reimbursement of travelling expenses
- Reduced administrative burden during financial audits
- Maintenance of professional standards in government dealings
- Compliance with financial regulations and procedural norms
📋 Action Points for Government Employees
📖 Circular Reference
This guidance is based on the ICMR Office Order dated November 10, 2025, regarding strict compliance requirements for Certificate of Undertaking and TA/DA bills in connection with air travel booked on government account.
🏁 Conclusion
The Certificate of Undertaking requirement for air travel booked on government account is a crucial compliance measure that ensures transparency, accountability, and proper financial management in government operations. Central government employees must meticulously follow these procedures to ensure smooth processing of their travel allowance claims and maintain organizational trust and credibility.
For specific departmental requirements and variations, employees should consult their respective office's travel or administrative section, as procedural nuances may vary across different ministries and departments.
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