Promotion to Non Select Ranks is on the basis of time stipulation provided the mandatory qualitative requirements are satisfied.

        The procedure for promotion of Army Officers to select ranks is governed by Paragraph 108 of the Regulations of the Army under which the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is empowered to convene Selection Boards. Promotion to select ranks is by a system of screening by independent Selection Boards constituted from select officers based on their operational and staff experiences, based on inputs available from records of an officer. Suitability for promotion is based upon value judgement of members of Selection Boards on the basis of data examined from the overall reckonable records of past performance and potential of the officer. Selection made is based on vacancies available and on comparative merit. Selection Board Proceedings for the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel are approved by the COAS under delegated powers. Similar proceedings for promotion to ranks of Brigadier, Major General and Lieutenant General are approved at the level of Government.

        Fairness in Selection Boards is ensured by not disclosing the identity of the officer under consideration for promotion upto the rank of Brigadier. Different officers are incorporated as observers to witness the Board proceedings so as to bring about transparency and objectivity. No officer named in Tehelka episode has so far been promoted.

        Selection procedures in the Army are time tested and proven over the years.

        This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri George Fernandes in a written reply to Smt Ambika Soni in Rajya Sabha today.