The Annual Confidential Report (ACR) and Self-Appraisal Report (SAR) systems have been integral to the performance evaluation framework within the Government of West Bengal.

Annual Confidential Report (ACR):

• Purpose: The ACR system was designed to assess the performance, conduct, and capabilities of government employees annually.

• Process: Supervisory officers would document observations regarding an employee's work ethic, efficiency, and behavior. These reports played a crucial role in decisions related to promotions, transfers, and career advancements.

• Evolution: Over time, concerns about the opacity and subjectivity of the ACR system led to calls for reform.

Self-Appraisal Report (SAR):

• Introduction: To address the limitations of the ACR system, the SAR mechanism was introduced. This system allows employees to self-assess their performance, set goals, and highlight achievements.

• Process: Employees fill out the SAR, which is then reviewed by their supervisors. This approach fosters a more participatory evaluation process, encouraging self-reflection and proactive career development.

• Current Status: The SAR system has been adopted to promote transparency and objectivity in performance evaluations.

The shift from ACR to SAR reflects the Government of West Bengal's commitment to modernizing administrative practices and enhancing employee engagement in the evaluation process.