LTC Block Year 2026-2029 Begins: New Air Travel Rules (NER/J&K) & Official PDF

New Delhi: The Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) has officially signaled the commencement of the new LTC Block Year (2026-2029) effective from January 1, 2026. This resets the travel quota for all Central Government employees. The biggest update is the extension of the “Special Dispensation Scheme,” allowing even non-entitled employees (Level 1 to 8) to travel by Air (Flight) to Kashmir, Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar, and the North East.

GOOD NEWS: You have a fresh quota of 2 Home Town + 1 All India visits (or conversion to Air Travel) available now. If you missed your LTC in the 2024-25 block, you can carry it forward to 2026! (See rules below).

1. What is the New Block Year 2026-2029?

LTC works in 4-year blocks. The previous block (2022-25) has expired. The new entitlements are:

2. Air Travel for Non-Entitled (Level 1-8)

Usually, employees below Pay Level 9 cannot fly. However, under the Special Cash Package & Dispensation Scheme, you can convert your “Home Town LTC” into an “All India LTC” to visit these 4 specific regions by Flight:

• Jammu & Kashmir
• Ladakh
• Andaman & Nicobar Islands
• North East Region (NER)

Note: Tickets must be booked only via Balmer Lawrie, IRCTC, or Ashok Travels. Private booking is NOT reimbursed.

Related Update: While planning your travel, don’t forget to check the Revised Transport Allowance Rates and the New HRA City List 2026 to see if your salary has increased to fund this trip.

3. Fresh Recruits (joined after 2018)

If you joined service recently, your block year is different (First 8 Years Rule). You are entitled to 3 Home Towns + 1 All India in a 4-year cycle. Please verify your individual joining date before booking.

4. Conclusion & Warning

Do not book tickets through apps like MakeMyTrip or Paytm. As per DoPT OM Dated 29.08.2022, reimbursement will be rejected. Always use the authorized travel agents.