Representations have been received from the field formations and members of the trade and industry regarding practicality of round-the-clock posting of Central Excise officers in the cigarette manufacturing units. In terms of para 10 of instructions dated 24.12.2008 issued vide F. No. 224/37/2005-CX.6, read with para 2.2 of Chapter 4 of the CBEC Manual, mandatory, round-the-clock presence of Central Excise officer in the factory has been prescribed to ensure that the goods are not removed without his authorisation and also exercise supervision and control over operations as per instructions contained in the Commodity Manual for cigarettes. In view of the limited number of officers posted in the range, problems are being faced to post officers in the cigarette manufacturing units roundthe-clock, resulting in delays in production/ clearance of goods.