OSD to Governor: Qualification
There is no fixed statutory qualification written in the Constitution or any specific Act for the post of Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Governor.
It is an administrative / appointment-based post decided by the Governor’s Secretariat or State Government.
However, generally the following qualifications and profile are preferred:
1. Educational Qualification
- Graduate degree (minimum)
- Preference for post-graduate degrees in:
- Public Administration
- Political Science
- Law (LLB/LLM)
- Management
- Social Sciences
2. Professional Experience
Usually candidates have one of the following backgrounds:
(A) Civil Services / Government Cadres
- IAS / IPS / IFS officers (serving or on deputation)
- State Civil Service officers
- Senior administrative officers from Secretariat
(B) Legal & Administrative Background
- Advocates with strong administrative experience
- Persons with experience in legislative or constitutional matters
(C) Political or Academic Background
- Researchers, advisors, academicians
- Individuals with experience in public policy, governance, or administrative research
3. Skills Required
- Strong administrative and coordination skills
- Drafting & communication skills
- Understanding of constitutional functions of Governor
- Ability to coordinate between departments, Raj Bhavan, and government offices
- Experience in handling protocol and official events
4. Appointment Process
- OSD is appointed at the pleasure of the Governor
- Often recommended by Chief Minister or Chief Secretary
- It is not a competitive exam post
- It is not filled by general public application unless Raj Bhavan issues a specific notice
5. Tenure
- Tenure is co-terminus with the Governor’s term
- Can be removed or replaced anytime based on administrative requirements
