lohit matani an introduction to civil services front.pdf 1 ... it will help those with public...

Civil ServicesAn Introduction to

For Civil Services Examination

Lohit Matani, IPSVishal, IPS

Foreword by

Kamal Dayani, IASPrincipal Secretary, Government of Gujarat

Key Features• Detailed Insights on All India and Central Services• Scheme & Strategy of Civil Services Examination• 100 Real Life Dilemmas and Case Studies• Guidelines on filling DAF• Contribution by 23 Serving Bureaucrats

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Lohit Matani An Introduction to Civil Services Front.pdf 1 02/02/18 3:49 PM

Civil ServicesAn Introduction to

For Civil Services Examination

Lohit Matani, IPSVishal, IPS

Foreword by


Key Features• Detailed Insights on All India and Central Services• Scheme & Strategy of Civil Services Examination• 100 Real Life Dilemmas and Case Studies• Guidelines on filling DAF• Contribution by 23 Serving Bureaucrats

ISBN: 978-81-9347-345-0

`295/-9 788193 473450

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An Introduction to Civil Services is an invaluable reference for Civil Service aspirants, providing, in addition to the scheme of the Civil Services Examination, an overview of the various All-India and Central Civil Services.

The book deals with the roles, responsibilities, advantages, and disadvantages of 23 different All-India Services and Central Civil Services recruited by the UPSC, strengthening the aspirant’s conceptual understanding of the Services. Besides aiding them in selecting their service preference, it will help those with public administration as their optional paper. In tune with the pattern of the questions asked in General Studies Paper IV, the book provides real-life ethics case studies related to the different services.

Written in simple and lucid language, this work is useful for Civil Services aspirants at the preliminary, main and interview stages. The book is also quite insightful for newly recruited civil servants in their initial years of training or posting.

Key features• Presents the scheme and pattern of the Civil Services Examination• Explains the roles, responsibilities, career paths, cadre structure, advantages, and disadvantages

of 23 All India and Central Services• Provides a comparative analysis of the described Services• Provides 100 real-life ethical dilemmas and case studies related to the different Services• Provides guidelines for filling Detailed Application Form (DAF) and selecting the Services• Offers a compilation based on the knowledge and experience of 23 serving bureaucrats

The book has been endorsed by the toppers of the Civil Services Examination: “An Introduction to Civil Services is a book that tries to give clarity and knowledge regarding our civil services. It offers insight and glimpse into the lives of officers of each service—their roles, responsibilities, what makes them tick, and what they may face in their line of work while serving the people and our beautiful country. Aspirants and others alike will find reading this book an enlightening experience.”

—Suman Sivachar, IFoS

“By portraying subtle aspects of various services allocated through UPSC, “An Introduction to Civil Services” truly lives up to its name. The contributors have put genuine efforts to outline the crucial role every service is entrusted with. It would be quite a useful read for everyone seeking a general perspective of civil services and especially to the aspirants for making apt preferences as per their attitude and aptitude.”

—Pawan Kumar, IAAS

Lohit Matani is an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 2014 batch serving in Maharashtra Cadre. He has completed his BTech and MTech in Material Science and Technology from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi. Lohit loves interacting with the young aspirants preparing for the civil services examination through his articles, blogs and books.

Vishal is an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 2014 batch serving in Nagaland Cadre. He has completed his BTech and MTech in Industrial Engineering from IIT Kharagpur. He has a wide experience in the social sector and has worked with reputed organizations such as National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), Be Able, and New Light.

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Lohit Matani An Introduction to Civil Services 29-1-2018 final.pdf 1 29/01/18 4:22 PM

2018

Lohit Matani, IPSBTech and MTech, IIT BHU, Varanasi

Vishal, IPSBTech and MTech, IIT Kharagpur

FOR CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION

An Introductionto

CIVIL SERVICES

Foreword by


Published byOakbridge Publishing Pvt. Ltd.

M 35, 1st Floor, Old DLFGurugram, 122002,

Haryana, India

Copyright © Author, 2018

The views and opinions expressed in this book are the author’s own and the facts are as reported by himwhich have been verified to the extent possible, and the publishers are not in any way liable for the same.

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, or stored in a retrieval system, in any formor by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying recording or otherwise without the priorpermission of the publishers.

Due care has been taken while preparing this book. Neither the author nor the publisher of the book holdsany responsibility for any mistake that may have inadvertently crept in. The publishers shall not beliable for any direct, consequential or incidental damages arising out of the use of this book.

ISBN: 978-81-934734-5-0

Printed and bound at Saurabh Printers Pvt.Ltd.

This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, resold,hired out, or otherwise circulated without the publisher’s prior consent in any form of binding or coverother than that in which it is published.

This book is dedicated toall the men and women

who have laid down theirlives in the service of the

nation.

Foreword

Civil services, since the time immemorial, have been playing a crucial role in the developmentof the nation. In a country like India, which is characterised with a vast diversity, the role ofcivil servants attains more primacy. With a unique blend of authority and responsibility,civil services, by its virtue, have welfare orientation. Civil servants, being eyes and ears ofthe government, provide the premise on which administrative decisions are taken andwelfare policies are framed. They form intellectual base of the administration and acts as afriend, philosopher and guide to the government. Due to the exposure that Civil Servicesprovide in multiple areas, now days, young population of India are getting more attractedtowards these services. For the efficient and effective utilization of their energy, it is animperative that these young mass should understand their roles and responsibilities in abetter manner, which is a pre-requisite for binding the nation in the common fabric ofharmony and fraternity. In this discourse, the book An Introduction to Civil Services is awonderful account of the work profile of different All India Services and Central CivilServices. Lohit and Vishal have made their roles further clear by providing real life casestudies of all the services.

The book is not only important for the students preparing for the IAS examination butalso for every member of the youth who has the curiosity to know about the differentwings of the Indian Government. I wish every youth, aspiring to become a civil servant,should read this book in order to understand the role which they are going to play asCivil Servants.

Kamal Dayani, IAS Principal Secretary

Government of Gujarat

From the Authors’ Desk

It was the month of August, 2014 when I got the information that I have been selected in theIndian Police Service (IPS). It was a happy moment, as I had to struggle hard for 3 years tosee this day. On 21 December 2014, I took a flight from Delhi to Hyderabad to join theSardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (NPA). On landing at the airport, wefound a bus from NPA waiting for us, and to receive us was a tall and dark man namedMr Soman. Mr Soman had a big Veerapan-like moustache. He greeted us with the salutation‘Jai Hind’. I still remember that moment when I was greeted with those two words for thefirst time. The words made me realize that I was one of the few selected people to serve mynation Hindustan. Like me, many candidates had been selected in different services toserve the nation.

After going through 1 year and 9 months of police training, I came to know about certainaspects of the police service. However, my knowledge and understanding about the differentbranches of the Indian Government were skewed.

It was only during the 91st Foundation Course at the Dr Marri Channa Reddy HumanResource Development Institute (MCR HRDI), Hyderabad (I had skipped my originalFoundation Course at LBSNAA, Mussoorie) that I realized the importance of the otherCivil Services of the Indian Government. There I interacted with the officer trainees ofIndian Postal Service (IPoS), Indian Forest Service (IFoS), Indian Revenue Service (IRS),Indian Statistical Service (ISS), Indian Economic Service (IES), Indian Trade Service (ITS),Indian Post and Telecommunication Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS), and IndianOrdnance Factories Service (IOFS).

The lack of knowledge among government servants about the different branches of theGovernment was a matter of concern for me. During an informal discussion, I discussed thisconcern with my IPS batchmates Vishal, Lokender, Pushparaj, and Raja Banthia.“Being a public servant, if we are not aware of the role of different Civil Services, whatwould be the awareness level of the common public?” asked Vishal.

“And on what basis had we preferred the Indian Police Service over other services? Everyyear candidates provide a preference list of different Civil Services without having adequateknowledge about them,” added Pushparaj.

Then Lokender came out with an idea-“We should write a book describing the roles andresponsibilities of the different Civil Services for the benefit of Civil Service orientedpeople,” he said excitedly.

“And we should also include some case studies to make the work profiles and roles veryclear,” I concluded.

Thus, Vishal and I decided to write this book titled “An Introduction to Civil Services”. Thebook deals with the roles, responsibilities, career paths, cadre structures, advantages, anddisadvantages of different All India Services and Central Civil Services recruited throughthe UPSC. It also contains case studies showcasing the work life, challenges, and ethicaldilemmas faced by the Civil Servants of different Civil Services.

While serving in these services, officers also enjoy opportunities to go on deputations todifferent organizations. These organizations vary from being those of international reputeto national institutions to public sector undertakings to universities. Presently, deputationto private organizations does not happen in India. However, officers have manyafter-service opportunities to serve in prominent private organizations.

Lohit MataniIPS, Maharashtra

From the Authors’ Desk

“TO SERVE IS BEAUTIFUL, BUT ONLY IF IT IS DONE WITHJOY AND A WHOLE HEART AND A FREE MIND”

-Pearl S Buck

The journey to induction into the Civil Services has been an exhilarating experience to saythe least. The idea of this career path was planted in my mind by my father, who alwaysencouraged me to take up Civil Services as a career. My calling came during the rigours andfancies of corporate life. Though corporate life is comforting when one focuses on individualgains, somewhere my heart always felt a vacuum.

The journey started as a search to understand the cause for this feeling. Fortunately,I got introduced to the social sector through a good friend who helped me realize the senseof satisfaction achieved through a selfless act. Although my engagement with the socialsector was limited, the exposure re-kindled the desire to make a career in this sector.

At this juncture, I was mentored and immensely helped by Mr Sajiv Nair to take the finaldecision to appear for the Civil Services Examination. I must credit the patience of myfamily who helped me through this process. The scope of serving in the Civil Services isunparalleled; it has the distinction of being the career where an officer's job is to bringpositive change into the lives of people while performing designated duties.

The platform provided by the Civil Services in India is unique due to the enormousresponsibility entrusted to the young recruits right from the start of their career. The merefact that after completion of the initial 4-5 years of the service tenure, an IAS, IFoS, or IPSofficer is responsible for their deputed districts in their respective domains is an example ofthe nature of the duty. This is a career for passionate individuals who hold a strong desire topositively impact the society around them. It is not a job but a ‘service’ where one works tobuild a society of their dreams.

This book has been written as an advisory guide for CS aspirants who would like to knowabout the different Civil Services recruited by the UPSC.

VishalIPS, Nagaland

x

Contributors of the Book

The following civil servants have helped in developing the content of this book. Theyhave provided information regarding the career paths, roles and responsibilities, deputationopportunities, advantages, disadvantages, and ethical dilemmas faced by officers in thedifferent Civil Services.

Contributors ServiceMr Lohit Matani Indian Police Service (IPS)

Mr Vishal Indian Police Service (IPS)

Ms Sarita Yadav Indian Administrative Service (IAS)Mr Abhijit Shukla Indian Foreign Service (IFS)

Mr Agneeshwar Vyas Indian Forest Service (IFoS)

Mr Sahil Garg Indian Post and Telecommunication Accountsand Finance Service (IP&T AFS)

Mr Raj Kamal Ranjan Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IAAS)

Mr Shevare Dilip Vana Indian Revenue Service-Customs and Central ExciseMr Gugale Dhiraj Dharmachand Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS)

Mr Lokender Singh Indian Revenue Service-Income Tax (IRS-IT)

Mr Mohan Agrawal Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS)Mr Sheth Vyomesh Rajeshkumar Indian Corporate Law Service (ICLS)

Ms Stuti Ghildiyal Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS)

Mr Anant Raman Sharna Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS)Mr Rituraj Mishra Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS)

Mr Raman Singh Indian Railway Protection Force (RPF)

Mr Ajay Bernwal Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES)Mr Tidke Rahul Atmaram Indian Information Service (IIS)

Mr Anupam Kumar Indian Trade Service (ITS)

Mr Subodh Pratap Singh Indian Postal Service (IPoS)Ms Tanu Jain Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service (AFHQCS)

Mr Rohit Chawla Indian Economic Service (IES)

Ms Anshika Bhatnagar Indian Statistical Service (ISS)

Acknowledgement

I acknowledge Mr Lokender Singh, IPS of Harayana Cadre, for coming up with the ideaof writing this book. I also acknowledge the help provided by Mr Raja Banthia,IPS of AGMUT Cadre, Mr Pushparaj Singh, IPS of Assam-Meghalaya Cadre, andMr Vishal, IPS of Nagaland Cadre, in helping me write this book.

I am thankful to all the civil servants who have contributed in compiling the contents ofthis book.

I am greatly thankful to the faculties of the Dr Marri Channa Reddy Human ResourceDevelopment Institute (MCR HRDI) for providing me an insight into the profile of thedifferent All India Services and Central Civil Services.

Finally, I am extremely thankful to my parents, wife Mrs Manjeet, brother, and other familymembers for being an inspiration behind writing this book.

Lohit MataniIPS, Maharashtra

I would like to thank my parents for their constant support in this journey. Lohit Matani andfriends have been instrumental in the completion of this book. Finally, but the most importantof all, this book would not have been possible without the inspiration, support, and advisefrom my life partner, Mrs Priyanka Sengar.

VishalIPS, Nagaland

Brief Contents

Dedication v Foreword vii From the Authors’ Desk ix

Contributors of the Book xi Acknowledgement xiii Contents xvii List of Abbreviations used in the book xxxi List of Case Studies xxxv About the Authors xxxvii

Chapters

1. Civil Services—An Introduction 1

2. Indian Administrative Service (IAS) 9

3. Indian Foreign Service (IFS) 21

4. Indian Police Service (IPS) 31

5. Indian Forest Service (IFoS) 41

6. Indian Post and Telecommunication Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS) 53

7. Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IAAS) 61

8. Indian Revenue Service—Customs and Central Excise (IRS-C&CE) 71

9. Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) 81

10. Indian Revenue Service—Income Tax (IRS-IT) 91

11. Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS) 99

12. Indian Corporate Law Service (ICLS) 109

13. Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) 117

14. Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) 129

xvi Brief Contents

15. Indian Railway Account Service (IRAS) 139

16. Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS) 147

17. Indian Railway Protection Force (RPF) 155

18. Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) 163

19. Indian Information Service (IIS) 173

20. Indian Trade Service (ITS) 183

21. Indian Postal Service (IPoS) 193

22. Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service (AFHQCS) 201

23. Indian Economic Service (IES) 209

24. Indian Statistical Service (ISS) 217

Appendices

1. A Comparative Analysis of 23 All-India and Central Civil Services 225

2. Bibliography 229

3. Additional Ethics Case Studies on Internal Security and Disaster Management 231

4. Myths about the Civil Services 255

5. Which Service Suits You the Best?—How to choose the right order of services while filling the Detailed Application Form (DAF)? 259

6. Query Form 261

————

Contents

Chapters

1. Civil Services—An Introduction 1

1.1 Union Public Service Commission 2 1.2 Major Examinations Conducted by the UPSC 3 1.3 The Civil Services Examination 3 1.3.1 The Preliminary Examination 4 1.3.2 The Main Examination 4 1.3.3 The Personality Test/Interview 6 1.3.4 Services Recruited through the Civil Services Examination 6 1.3.5 How this Book is Useful for Civil Service Aspirants 7

2. Indian Administrative Service 9 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 9 2.1 Roles and Responsibilities 9 2.1.1 District Collector/District Magistrate 9 2.1.2 District Development Officer/Zila Parishad CEO 10 2.1.3 Chief Returning Officer in Elections 11 2.1.4 District Census Officer 11 2.1.5 Other Functions at the District Level 11 2.1.6 Divisional Commissioner 11 2.1.7 Principal Secretary 11 2.1.8 Chief Secretary of a State 11 2.1.9 Cabinet Secretary 12 2.2 Normal Growth Profile 12 2.3 Recruitment 13 2.4 Training 13 2.5 Opportunities for IAS Officers 14 2.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IAS Officers 15 2.7 Occupational Hazards 16 2.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by IAS Officers 16 2.8.1 Peoples’ Road: Connecting an Unconnected Village 16 2.8.2 Dealing with Communal Tensions of an Acute Nature 17 2.8.3 Politics of Disaster Relief 18

xviii Contents

3. Indian Foreign Service 21 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 21 3.1 Roles and Responsibilities 21

3.1.1 Political Function 22 3.1.2 Economic and Commercial Functions 22 3.1.3 Consular Function 22

3.1.4 Publicity and Cultural Exchange 22 3.1.5 Representation 23 3.1.6 Ministry of External Affairs 23

3.2 Normal Growth Profile 23 3.3 Recruitment 24 3.4 Training 24

3.5 Opportunities for IFS Officers 25 3.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IFS Officers 26 3.7 Occupational Hazards 26

3.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by IFS Officers 27

3.8.1 Operation Rahat 27

3.8.2 Diplomatic Immunity Enjoyed by IFS Officers 28 3.8.3 123 Indo-US Nuclear Deal 28

4. Indian Police Service 31 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 31

4.1 Roles and Responsibilities 31

4.1.1 Superintendent of Police of a District 32 4.1.2 State-level Police Organizations 33 4.1.3 Central-Level Police Organizations 33 4.1.4 Headquarter Functions 34 4.1.5 Police Research 34 4.2 Normal Growth Profile 34 4.3 Recruitment 35 4.4 Physical Requirements 35 4.5 Training 35 4.6 Opportunities for IPS Officers 36 4.7 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IPS Officers 36 4.8 Occupational Hazards 37 4.9 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by IPS Officers 37

4.9.1 Anti-Drugs Investigation 37 4.9.2 A Case of Communal Murder 38 4.9.3 Land Rights at Assam-Nagaland Border 39

Contents xix

5. Indian Forest Service 41 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 41 5.1 Roles and Responsibilities 41

5.1.1 Inspection and Supervision of Forests 41 5.1.2 Keeping Account of Forest Produce 42 5.1.3 Protection and Maintenance of Forests 42

5.1.4 Maintaining Good Relations with Forest People 42 5.1.5 Prevention and Investigation of Forest Crime 42 5.1.6 Survey and Maintenance of Forest Land Records 42

5.1.7 Forest Statistics and Working Plans 42 5.1.8 Protection of Ecologically Sensitive Zones 43 5.1.9 Wildlife Conservation 43

5.1.10 Silviculture Research and Implementation 43 5.1.11 Policy Advice and Project Formation 43 5.1.12 Afforestation Programmes 43

5.1.13 Integrated Watershed Development Programme 43 5.2 Normal Growth Profile 44 5.3 Recruitment 44

5.4 Eligibility and Examination Pattern 44 5.5 Training 45 5.6 Opportunities for IFoS Officers 46

5.7 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IFoS Officers 47

5.8 Occupational Hazards 48 5.9 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by IFoS Officers 48 5.9.1 Conservation of Amur Falcon—Efforts of an IFoS Officer 48 5.9.2 Controlling Illegal Fishing in Totladoh Dam, Pench Forest

Reserve 49

5.9.3 Illegal Construction in Forests 51

6. Indian Post and Telecommunication Accounts and Finance Service 53 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 53 6.1 Roles and Responsibilities 53 6.1.1 Department of Telecommunication 53

6.1.2 Department of Posts 54 6.2 Normal Growth Profile 55 6.3 Recruitment 55

6.4 Training 56 6.5 Opportunities for IP&TAFS Officers 56 6.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IP&TAFS Officers 57

xx Contents

6.7 Occupational Hazards 57

6.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by IP&TAFS Officers 58

6.8.1 Financial Irregularities in Spectrum Usage 58

6.8.2 Misuse of Wireless Space 58 6.8.3 Irregularity in Universal Service Obligation Fund 59

7. Indian Audit and Accounts Service 61 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 61 7.1 Roles and Responsibilities 61

7.1.1 Audit of Government Bodies 62 7.1.2 Audit of Government Companies 62 7.1.3 Account Functions 62

7.1.4 Functions Related to Salary and Pension 63 7.1.5 Audit Reports 63 7.1.6 Other Functions 63


7.5 Opportunities for IAAS Officers 65 7.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IAAS Officers 66 7.7 Occupational Hazards 67

7.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by IAAS Officers 67

7.8.1 Paddy Scam of Bihar 67

7.8.2 Tractor Scam 68 7.8.3 At the Mercy of Public Accounts Committee 69

8. Indian Revenue Service—Customs and Central Excise 71 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 71 8.1 Roles and Responsibilities 71

8.1.1 Customs Duty Related Functions 71 8.1.2 Adjudicating Functions 72 8.1.3 Excise Duty Related Functions 72

8.1.4 Narcotics Related Functions 72 8.1.5 Service Tax Related Functions 72 8.1.6 International Functions 73

8.1.7 Investigation Functions 73 8.1.8 Policy Formulation Functions 73 8.2 Normal Growth Profile 73

8.3 Recruitment 74

Contents xxi

8.4 Training 74

8.5 Opportunities for IRS-C&CE Officers 75 8.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IRS-C&CE Officers 76 8.7 Occupational Hazards 77

8.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by IRS-C&CE Officers 77

8.8.1 Role during Indo-Nepal Dispute 77

8.8.2 Tax Evasion Operations 78 8.8.3 Interpretation of Service Tax—Bashing by Higher Courts 79

9. Indian Defence Accounts Service 81 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 81 9.1 Roles and Responsibilities 81

9.1.1 Office of Controller General of Defence Accounts 81 9.1.2 Office of Controller/Principal Controller of Defence Accounts 82 9.1.3 Role of Financial Adviser 82

9.1.4 UN Peacekeeping Missions 83 9.1.5 Pension Sanction and Disbursement 83 9.1.6 Regional Training Centers 83

9.1.7 Pension Office 83 9.1.8 Ordnance Factories (Controller of Financial Accounts) 83 9.1.9 Central Ministries 83


9.5 Opportunities for IDAS Officers 86 9.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IDAS Officers 86 9.7 Occupational Hazards 87

9.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by IDAS Officers 87

9.8.1 Economy in Procurement of Communication/Security Equipment 87

9.8.2 Implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP) Scheme 88

9.8.3 Tackling Corruption in Procurement 88

10. Indian Revenue Service-Income Tax 91 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 91 10.1 Roles and Responsibilities 91 10.1.1 Revenue Assessment and Collection 91

10.1.2 Investigation Function 92 10.1.3 International Functions 92

xxii Contents

10.1.4 Policy Formulation 92

10.1.5 Other Functions 92 10.2 Normal Growth Profile 93 10.3 Recruitment 93

10.4 Training 93 10.5 Opportunities for IRS-IT Officers 94 10.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IRS-IT Officers 95


Dilemmas Faced by IRS-IT Officers 96

10.8.1 Threats in the Line of Duty 96 10.8.2 Legal Hindrance in Excellence 96 10.8.3 A Great Soldier in the Demonetization Drive 97

11. Indian Ordnance Factories Service 99 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 99 11.1 Roles and Responsibilities 100 11.1.1 Arms Manufacture 100 11.1.2 Sourcing of Semi-Finished Goods 100

11.1.3 Quality Assurance 100 11.1.4 Head Quarter Functions 100 11.1.5 Product Supply and Customer Interaction 101

11.1.6 Expansion and Maintenance of Capital Assets 101 11.1.7 Support Activities 101 11.1.8 Indigenization and Upgradation of Technology 101


11.5 Opportunities for IOFS Officers 103 11.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IOFS Officers 104 11.7 Occupational Hazards 105

11.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by IOFS Officers 105

11.8.1 Dilemma in Procurement 105

11.8.2 Pressure to Overlook Quality Parameters 106

12. Indian Corporate Law Service 109 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 109 12.1 Roles and Responsibilities 109 12.1.1 Regional Director 109

12.1.2 Registrar of Companies 109

Contents xxiii

12.1.3 Official Liquidators 110

12.1.4 Central Registration Centre 110 12.1.5 Headquarter Functions 110 12.1.6 National Company Law Tribunal 110

12.1.7 Serious Fraud Investigation 110 12.2 Normal Growth Profile 110 12.3 Recruitment 111

12.4 Training 111 12.5 Opportunities for ICLS Officers 112 12.6 How are the ICLS better from others? 112

12.7 Occupational Hazards 113 12.8 Challenges Faced by ICLS Officers 113 12.9 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by ICLS Officers 114 12.9.1 Reebok Corporate Fraud 114 12.9.2 Liquidation Turns Violent 114

13. Indian Civil Accounts Service 117 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 117 13.1 Roles and Responsibilities 118 13.1.1 Principles, Forms, and Standards of Accounting 118 13.1.2 Receipts and Payments 118 13.1.3 Pension Disbursement 118 13.1.4 Accounting and Financial Reporting 118 13.1.5 Plan Scheme Monitoring 119 13.1.6 Internal Audit 119 13.2 Normal Growth Profile 119 13.3 Recruitment 119 13.4 Training 120 13.5 Opportunities for ICAS Officers 121 13.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for ICAS Officers 122 13.7 Occupational Hazards 123 13.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by ICAS Officers 124

13.8.1 Punishment for Maintaining Financial Propriety 124 13.8.2 Rahat Lekha: Accounting Aid to Disaster Management 124 13.8.3 Public Financial Management System 126

14. Indian Railway Traffic Service 129 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 129 14.1 Roles and Responsibilities 130 14.1.1 Operating Department 130

xxiv Contents

14.1.2 Commercial Department 131

14.1.3 Railway Board 131 14.1.4 Future and Changing Roles 131 14.2 Normal Growth Profile 132

14.3 Recruitment 132 14.4 Training 133 14.5 Opportunities for IRTS Officers 134

14.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IRTS Officers 134 14.7 Occupational Hazards 135 14.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by IRTS Officers 136 14.8.1 Operation Raftaar 136 14.8.2 Dilemma in Wagon Allotment 137

14.8.3 Case of Uneconomical Commercial Facilities 137

15. Indian Railway Account Service 139 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 139 15.1 Roles and Responsibilities 139 15.1.1 Financial Management 139

15.1.2 Accounting Function 140 15.2 Normal Growth Profile 141 15.3 Recruitment 142

15.4 Training 142 15.5 Opportunities for IRAS Officers 143 15.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IRAS Officers 144


Dilemmas Faced by IRAS Officers 145

15.8.1 Laying Railway Track through Naxalite Areas 145 15.8.2 Voluntary Retirement Due to Political Pressure 145 15.8.3 Wrong Means to Earn Profit 146

16. Indian Railway Personnel Service 147 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 147 16.1 Roles and Responsibilities 147 16.1.1 Establishment and Personnel Management 147 16.1.2 Industrial Relations 148

16.1.3 Administration of Labour Laws 148 16.1.4 Legal and Court Matters 148 16.1.5 Human Resource Development 148

16.2 Normal Growth Profile 149

Contents xxv

16.3 Recruitment 149

16.4 Opportunities for IRPS Officers 149 16.5 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IRPS Officers 150


16.7 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by IRPS Officers 152

16.7.1 Managing Union Demands Versus Operational Efficiency 152

16.7.2 Corruption in Welfare Work of Indian Railways 152

16.7.3 A Question of Integrity 153

17. Indian Railway Protection Force 155 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 155 17.1 Roles and Responsibilities 156


17.3 Recruitment and Training 158

17.4 Opportunities for Group A RPF Officers 158

17.5 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for Group A RPF Officers 159


17.7 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by Group A RPF Officers 160

17.7.1 Rail Roko Andolan 160

17.7.2 Chain Pulling and Railway Thefts: A Catch 22 Situation 161

17.7.3 Child Trafficking Through Indian Railways 162

18. Indian Defence Estates Service 163 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 163 18.1 Roles and Responsibilities 163

18.1.1 Management of Defence Land 164

18.1.2 Acquisition of Defence Land 164

18.1.3 Administration of Cantonment Board 165

18.1.4 Functions in DGDE for Cantonment Administration 165

18.1.5 Hiring of Lands and Buildings 165

18.1.6 In Archival Unit and Resource Centre 166


18.3 Recruitment 167

18.4 Training 167

18.5 Opportunities for IDES Officers 167

18.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IDES Officers 168


xxvi Contents

18.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Dilemmas Faced by an IDES Officer 169

18.8.1 Balancing the Army Command with the Public Needs 169 18.8.2 Dilemma between Development and Security 169

18.8.3 Political Insulation versus Sensitivity 170

19. Indian Information Service 173 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 173 19.1 Roles and Responsibilities 173 19.1.1 Press Information Bureau 173

19.1.2 Field Publicity Units 174 19.1.3 News Service Units of All India Radio and Doordarshan

News 174

19.1.4 Registrar of Newspapers for India 174 19.1.5 Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity 174 19.1.6 Monitoring of News and Taking Corrective Actions 175

19.1.7 Other Responsibilities 175 19.2 Normal Growth Profile 175 19.3 Recruitment 176

19.4 Training 176 19.5 Opportunities for IIS Officers 177 19.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IIS Officers 178


Dilemmas Faced by IIS Officers 179

19.8.1 Role of Media during Terror Attacks—Action by IIS Officers 179

19.8.2 Containing Negative News 180

19.8.3 Role in Containing Naxalism 181

20. Indian Trade Service 183 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 183 20.1 Roles and Responsibilities 183 20.1.1 Directorate General of Foreign Trade 183

20.1.2 Trade Policy Division 184 20.1.3 Permanent Mission to WTO 184 20.1.4 Special Economic Zones 185

20.1.5 Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties 185 20.1.6 Department of Commerce 186 20.2 Normal Growth Profile 186

20.3 Recruitment 187 20.4 Training 187

Contents xxvii

20.5 Opportunities for ITS Officers 188

20.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for ITS Officers 188 20.7 Occupational Hazards 189 20.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by ITS Officers 189 20.8.1 Conflict between Spirit of Job and Governmental Rules 189 20.8.2 A Problem of Inter-Departmental Coordination 190

20.8.3 Dealing with Non-Tariff Barriers 191

21. Indian Postal Service 193 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 193 21.1 Roles and Responsibilities 193 21.2 Normal Growth Profile 194

21.3 Recruitment 195 21.4 Training 195 21.5 Opportunities for IPoS Officers 196

21.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IPoS Officers 197 21.7 Occupational Hazards 197 21.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by IPoS Officers 198 21.8.1 Managers of Change 198 21.8.2 NREGA Payments through Post Offices 199

21.8.3 Use of Postal System in Disaster Management 199

22. Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service 201 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 201 22.1 Roles and Responsibilities 201 22.1.1 General Duties 201

22.1.2 Responsibilities Relating to Dak 202 22.1.3 Responsibilities Relating to Issue of Draft 202 22.1.4 Responsibility of Efficient and Expeditious Disposal of

Work and Checks on Delays 202 22.1.5 Independent Disposal of Cases 203 22.1.6 Duties in Respect of Recording and Indexing 203

22.1.7 Repository of Information 203 22.1.8 Policy making and implementation 203 22.1.9 Coordinator, Bridge, and Catalyst 203


22.5 Opportunities for AFHQCS Officers 204

xxviii Contents

22.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for AFHQCS Officers 206


Dilemmas Faced by AFHQCS Officers 207

22.8.1 Power Conflict in Procurement 207 22.8.2 Interference in Posting and Promotion 207

23. Indian Economic Service 209 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 209 23.1 Roles and Responsibilities 209 23.1.1 Economic Advice 209 23.1.2 Design of Developmental Policies and Programmes 210 23.1.3 International Functions 210 23.1.4 Policy and Programme Monitoring 210 23.1.5 Policy Evaluation and Impact Analysis 211 23.1.6 Other Functions 211 23.2 Normal Growth Profile 211 23.3 Recruitment 212 23.4 Training 212 23.5 Opportunities for IES Officers 213 23.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for IES Officers 214 23.7 Occupational Hazards 214 23.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical

Dilemmas Faced by IES Officers 215

23.8.1 Crisis During Coal Allocation Scam 215

24. Indian Statistical Service 217 Introduction—Overview and Cadre Structure 217 24.1 Roles and Responsibilities 217 24.1.1 Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation 217 24.1.2 Central Statistical Office 218 24.1.3 National Sample Survey Office 218 24.1.4 Programme Implementation Wing 219 24.1.5 Other Ministries 219 24.2 Normal Growth Profile 219 24.3 Recruitment 220 24.4 Training 220 24.5 Opportunities for ISS Officers 221 24.6 Perks, Privileges, and Advantages for ISS Officers 222 24.7 Occupational Hazards 222

24.8 Case Studies Illustrating the Work Life, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas Faced by ISS Officers 223

24.8.1 Problems in Data Collection 223

Contents xxix

Appendices

1. A Comparative Analysis of 23 All-India and Central Civil Services 225

2. Bibliography 229

3. Additional Ethics Case Studies on Internal Security and Disaster Management 231

4. Myths about the Civil Services 255

5. Which Service Suits You the Best?—How to choose the right order of services while filling the Detailed Application Form (DAF)? 259

6. Query Form 261

————

List of Abbreviations used in the book

AAR ... Authority for Advance Ruling

ACF ... Assistant Conservator of Forest

ACIT ... Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax

ACP ... Assistant Commissioner of Police

ASI ... Assistant Sub Inspector

BPR&D ... Bureau of Police Research and Development

BPST ... Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training

BSF ... Border Security Force

CBEC ... Central Board of Excise and Customs

CBI ... Central Bureau of Investigation

CDA ... Controller of Defence Accoounts

CERC ... Central Electricity Regulatory Commission

CGDA ... Controller General of Defence Accounts

CID ... Criminal Investigation Department

CISF ... Central Industrial Security Force

CIT ... Commissioner of Income Tax

CMD ... Chairman and Managing Director

CRPF ... Central Reserve Police Force

CSIR ... Central Council of Industrial Research

CVO ... Chief Vigilance Officer

DCP ... Deputy Commissioner of Police

DDIT ... Deputy Director of Income Tax

DCIT ... Deputy Commissioner of Income TAx

DFO ... Divisional Forest Officer

DGCA ... Director General of Civil Aviation

ED ... Enforcement Directorate

EOW ... Economic Offences Wing

EPFO ... Employee Provident Fund Organization

EXIM ... Export Import Bank

xxxii List of Abbreviations used in the book

FIEO ... Federation of Indian Export Organizations

FSCD&HG ... Fire Service, Civil Defence and Home Guard

FSI ... Forest Survey of India

GIDC ... Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation

IB ... Intelligence Bureau

ICAR ... Indian Council of Agricultural Research.

ICFRE ... Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education

IGNFA ... Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy

IMO ... International Maritime Organization

IOSCO ... International Organization of Securities Commission

IRDA ... Insurance Regulatory Development Authority

ISTM ... Institute of Secretariat Training and Management

ITBP ... Indo Tibetan Border Police

ITO ... Income Tax Officer

IUCN ... International Union for Conservation of Nature

JCIT ... Joint Commissioner of Income Tax

JDIT ... Joint Director of Income Tax

MCX ... Multi Commodity Exchange

NACEN ... National Academy of Customs Excise and Narcotics

NAEB ... National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board

NAO ... National Audit Office

NATGRID ... National Terrorism Grid

NCB ... Narcotics Crime Bureau

NCRB ... National Crime Records Bureau

NDRF ... National Disaster Response Force

NIA ... National Investigation Agency

NICFS ... National Institute of Crimonology and Forensic Science

NIFM ... National Institute of Finance and Management

NIMZ ... National Investment and Manufacturing Zone

NISM ... National Institute of Securities Markets

NMDC ... National Mineral Development Corporation

NSG ... National Security Guard

NTCA ... National Tiger Conservation Authority

NTRO ... National Technical Research Organisation

PPP ... Public Private Partnership

List of Abbreviations used in the book xxxiii

PSU ... Public Sector Undertaking

RAF ... Rapid Action Force

RAW ... Research and Analysis Wing

RBI ... Reserve Bank of India

RPSF ... Railway Protection Special Force

SAFEMFOPA ... Smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators (Forfeiture of Properties) Authority

SEBI ... Securities and Exchange Board of India

SEZ ... Special economic zones

SFIO ... Serious Fraud Investigation Office

SHRC ... State Human Rights Commission

SI ... Sub Inspector

SID ... State Intelligence Department

SPF ... Special Protection Group

SSB ... Sashatra Seema Bal

TERM ... Telecom Enforcement Resource and Monitoring

TFRI ... Indian Institute of Forest Management

TFRI ... Tropical Forest Research Institute

TRAI ... Telecom Regulatory Authority of India

UNDP ... United Nations Development Programme

UNEP ... United Nations Environment Programme

UNSC ... United Nations Security Council.

WII ... Wildlife Institute of India,

WWF ... World Wildlife Fund

————

List of case studies from the different services mentioned in the book

Sl No. Case Study Page No.

1 Peoples' Road: Connecting an Unconnected Village 16

2 Dealing with Communal Tensions of an Acute Nature 17

3 Politics of Disaster Relief 18

4 Operation Rahat 27

5 Diplomatic Immunity Enjoyed by IFS Officers 28

6 123 Indo-US Nuclear Deal 28

7 Anti- Drugs Investigation 37

8 A Case of Communal Murder 38

9 A case study of Land rights at Assam-Nagaland border 39

10 Conservation of Amur Falcon- Efforts of an IFoS Officer 48

11 Controlling Illegal Fishing in Totladoh Dam, Pench Forest Reserve 49

12 Illegal Construction in Forests 51

13 Financial Irregularities in Spectrum Usage 58

14 Misuse of Wireless Space 58

15 Irregularity in Universal Service Obligation Fund 59

16 Paddy Scam of Bihar 67

17 Tractor Scam 68

18 At the Mercy of Public Accounts Committee 69

19 Role of IRS-C&CE Officer during Indo-Nepal Dispute 77

20 Tax Evasion Operations 78

21 Interpretation of Service Tax-Bashing by Higher Courts 79

22 Economy in Procurement of Communication/ Security Equipment 87

23 Implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP) Scheme 88

24 Tackling Corruption in Procurement 88

25 Threats in Line of Duty of IRS-IT Officer 96

26 Legal Hindrance in Excellence 96

27 A Great Soldier in the Demonetization Drive 97

28 Dilemma in Procurement for an IOFS Officer 105

29 Pressure to Overlook Quality Parameters 106

xxxvi List of case studies from the different services mentioned in the book

Sl No. Case Study Page No.

30 Reebok Corporate Fraud 114

31 Liquidation Turns Violent 114

32 Punishment For Maintaining Financial Propriety 124

33 RahatLekha: Accounting Aid to Disaster Management 124

34 Public Financial Management System (erst. CPSMS) 126

35 Operation Raftaar-Indian Railways 136

36 Dilemma in Wagon Allotment 137

37 Case of Uneconomical Commercial Facilities 137

38 Laying Railway Track through Naxalite Areas 145

39 Voluntary Retirement Due to Political Pressure 145

40 Wrong Means to Earn Profit- Indian Railways 146

41 Managing Union Demands versus Operational Efficiency 152

42 Corruption in Welfare Work of Indian Railways 152

43 A Question of Integrity 153

44 Rail Roko Andolan 160

45 Chain Pulling and Railway Theft: A Catch 22 Situation 161

46 Child Trafficking Though Indian Railways 162

47 Balancing the Army Command with the Public Needs 169

48 Dilemma between Development and Security 169

49 Political Insulation versus Sensitivity 170

50 Role of Media during Terror Attacks- Action by IIS Officers 179

51 Containing Negative News 180

52 A Great Role in Containing Naxalism 181

53 Conflict between Spirit of Job and Governmental Rules 189

54 A Problem of Inter Departmental Coordination 190

55 Dealing with Non-Tariff Barriers (NTB) 191

56 Managers of Change- IPoS Officers 198

57 NREGA Payments through Post Offices 199

58 Use of Postal System in Disaster Management 199

59 Power Conflict in Procurement 207

60 Interference in Posting and Promotion for an AFHQCS Officer 207

61 Crisis During Coal Allocation Scam 215

62 Problems in Data Collection 223

————

About the Authors

Lohit wanted to pen down a book on the profile of different civil services.

Before this, he has also authored a book named “Internal Security: Concepts, Dynamics,and Challenges”. Lohit loves interacting with the young students and candidates preparingfor the civil services examination through his articles, blogs and books. He is writer of theblog "lohitmatani.wordpress.com". He has also earned accolades during his academic yearsas he has published 7 US patents in the field of ‘Dielectric Materials’ and ‘Wireless PowerTransmission’.

Lohit Matani is an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of 2014batch serving in Maharashtra Cadre. He has done B.Tech andM.Tech in Material Science and Technology from the IndianInstitute of Technology (IIT), Banaras Hindu University (BHU),and Varanasi. Before joining IPS, he has worked for 7 monthsin the General Electric (GE) Technologies Ltd. Having an urgeto spread his knowledge,

Vishal, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of 2014 batchposted in Nagaland Cadre, is classic example of a personfrom a humble background having a dream to serve thecountry in a substantial manner. He has done B.Tech andM.Tech in Industrial Engineering from IIT Kharagpur. Beforejoining IPS, Vishal has served for four and a half years in theprivate sector in ITC and Snapdeal. However, his workexperience in the social sector, in organizations like “NationalSkill Development Corporation (NSDC)”, “Be Able”,and “New Light” diverted his interest towards civil services.

Being a voracious reader and a prolific writer, Vishal wanted to start his journey towardswriting books with the book ‘An Introduction to Civil Services’.

1

Civil Services—An Introduction

An Introduction to Civil Services Civil Services—An Introduction Chapter 1

The roots of the Civil Services go back a long way in human history. The key to the survival of the ancient Egyptian civilization, which flourished as early as 3000 BC, was the civil service—the historical model of all the later bureaucracies. The waterways for the civilization needed central management, which required a body of officials. Once in place, the officials found their second realm of business in the extensive construction activities, organized along military lines. It was only a matter of time before they took over the administration of the entire state.

In India, the legends of the Aryans speak of the evolution of the administrative apparatus. The gods, at war with the demons, were on the verge of defeat. In desperation, they got together and elected a king to lead them. The origins of the early Aryan administrative system may perhaps be traced to these legends.

Subsequently, the bureaucratic system in India evolved through the periods of the Delhi Sultanate, Mauryan Empire, Mughal Rule, and the British Colonial Empire.

The present civil service structure in India traces its origin to the Macaulay Committee under Lord Macaulay. The committee gave India its first modern civil service in 1854 and recommended that the patronage-based system of the East India Company should be replaced by a permanent civil service, entry into which would be based on merit through a competitive entrance examination. While designing the civil service after Independence, the Indian political leaders chose to retain elements of the British structure of a unified administrative system, such as an open-entry system based on academic achievements, elaborate training arrangements, permanency of tenure, important posts at the Union, state, and district levels reserved for the civil service, a regular graduated scale of pay with pension and other benefits, and a system of promotions and transfers based predominantly on seniority.

These Civil Services are far superior to any job in the private sector. They run the entire administration of the country. The elected ministers of India lay down the policies required to properly run the administrative machinery, which are then executed by the civil servants in various central and state government agencies.

2 An Introduction to Civil Services Chapter 1

The importance of the Civil Services in a democracy like India is very high. For effective administration, it is vital that our political leaders are given non-partisan advice, based on effective co-ordination between the various institutions of governance. The Government of India expects the civil servants to fulfill their responsibility towards the public by offering frank and unbiased advice to the government (irrespective of who is in power).

The Civil Services in India are grouped into three broad categories. Services whose members serve both the Union and the state governments are termed All-India Services. Services whose members serve only the Union government are termed Central Civil Services. Apart from these, the state governments have their own group of services, the State Civil Services.

1.1 Union Public Service Commission Civil servants are selected through various examinations conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), including the Civil Services Examination. UPSC is the central authority that conducts various examinations to recruit candidates for various Group A and Group B government services such as All-India Services, Central Civil Services, Indian Forest Service, Indian Economic Service, Indian Statistical Service, Indian Engineering Services, and Indian Defence Services.

The origin of the Public Service Commission in India dates back to 1919 when the First Dispatch of the Government of India, on Indian Constitutional Reforms on 5 March 1919, referred to the need for setting up a permanent office for the regulation of service matters. In furtherance to it, Section 96(C) of the Government of India Act, 1919, provided for the establishment of a Public Service Commission to ‘discharge, in regard to recruitment and control of the Public Services in India, such functions as may be assigned thereto by the rules made by the Secretary of State in Council’. After this, the Lee Commission also recommended setting up a Public Service Commission, which was set up on 1 October 1926. The first member of this commission was Sir Ross Barker.

After the passage of the Government of India Act, 1935, this Public Service Commission was converted into the Federal Public Service Commission. Following the enforcement of the constitution on 26 January 1950, the Federal Public Service Commission was renamed as the Union Public Service Commission. The Commission is constituted under Article 315 of the Constitution.

The functions of the UPSC are described in Article 320 of the Constitution. These functions are as follows:

1. Conduct examinations for appointment to the services of the Union.

2. Direct recruitment by selection through interviews.

3. Appointment of officers on promotion/deputation/absorption.

Chapter 1 Civil Services—An Introduction 3

4. Framing and amendment of recruitment rules for various services and posts under the Government.

5. Disciplinary cases relating to different Civil Services.

6. Advising the Government on any matter referred to the Commission by the President of India.

1.2 Major Examinations Conducted by the UPSC The various examinations conducted by UPSC are the following:

1. Civil Services Examination (recruitment to 25 different All-India Services and Central Civil Services)

2. Indian Economic Service (IES) Examination

3. Indian Statistical Service (ISS) Examination

4. Engineering Service Examination

5. Central Defence Service (CDS) Examination

6. Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Examination

7. National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy Examination

8. Combined Geo-Scientist and Geologist’s Examination

9. Indian Forest Service Examination

In the following chapters, we will discuss the details of the following services:

1. 20 All-India Services and Central Civil Services recruited through the Civil Services Examination

2. Indian Forest Service

3. Indian Economic Service

4. Indian Statistical Service

We have not discussed the profile of Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Civil Service (DANICS); Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service (DANIPS); Puducherry Civil Service (PCS); and Puducherry Police Service (PPS); as they are the Group B services of IAS and IPS, having a similar work profile.

1.3 The Civil Services Examination The Civil Services Examination is conducted every year for appointing Group A and Group B officers from across India into 24 different All-India Services and Central Civil Services. The selection process consists of three stages—the preliminary examination, the main examination, and the personality test (or interview). These three stages are described in the following sections.


1.3.1 The Preliminary Examination

The preliminary examination is the first stage of the selection process in the Civil Services Examination. This is an elimination round, with the aim of shortlisting candidates (around 15,000–17,000, which is about 12–15 times the number of available vacancies) who would appear in the main examination. It is held every year any time between the months of May and August. A candidate can apply for the examination through the website www.upsc.gov.in.

The examination comprises two papers of 200 marks each.

Paper 1: Paper 1, also known as General Studies Paper 1, is oriented towards testing the general awareness of the candidates in a variety of subjects including Indian and world history, Indian and world geography, science and technology, Indian culture, Indian polity, economy, environment and ecology, and topics of current affairs. It consists of 100 questions of 2 marks each. It is the most important paper as it decides whether a candidate would be allowed to appear in the main examination or not.

Paper 2: Paper 2, also known as the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) or General Studies Paper 2, is intended to test the general mental ability of the candidate. It tests the candidate’s reading comprehension, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision making, basic quantitative aptitude, and data interpretation skills. It consists of 80 questions of 2.5 marks each. This paper is only of qualifying nature and a candidate has to score at least 33% of the total marks.

Only the marks scored in Paper 1 are considered for shortlisting candidates that would appear at the next stage of the examination. However, these marks are not added to the marks secured in the main examination and interview for determining the final rank of the aspirant.

1.3.2 The Main Examination

The main examination is the most important part of the whole process, as it carries the maximum number of marks (1750) in the whole process. After qualifying in the preliminary examination, a candidate is required to fill the detailed application form (DAF). The form contains personal details, choice of optional subject, service preference order, and cadre preference order (for All-India Services) of a candidate. The form needs to be submitted online at the website of UPSC within the prescribed dates.

The main examination is conducted between the months of October and December. It consists of nine papers, each of 3 hours duration. Two papers are scheduled on a day. The process can go on continuously for 5–6 days. Thus, it is a tough task, which requires high mental and physical alertness. The following papers are a part of the main examination:

1. English Language Paper: This paper tests the proficiency of a candidate in English language. It carries 300 marks. It tests the skills of a candidate in essay writing, unseen passages, and English grammar. This paper is


only of qualifying nature, and these marks are not added to the total marks secured in the main examination. A candidate needs to secure the minimum qualifying marks in this paper (generally between 75 and 90).

2. Indian Language Paper: This paper tests the proficiency of a candidate in any chosen language from among those mentioned in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. The nature of the test is similar to that of the English language paper. A candidate needs to secure only minimum marks to qualify for the next stage (90–100).

3. Essay Paper: This paper tests the writing skills, comprehension skills, and general knowledge of a candidate by way of essay writing. This paper carries 200 marks. The marks secured in this paper determine the rank in the final merit list.

4. General Studies Paper 1: This paper tests the knowledge of the candidate in the subjects of Indian and world history, Indian culture, Indian and world geography, environment and ecology, Indian sociology, developmental issues, urbanization issues, and women-related issues. It carries 250 marks. The marks secured in this paper determine the rank in the final merit list.

5. General Studies Paper 2: This examination tests the knowledge of the candidate in the subjects of polity, constitution, governance, social justice, development, and international relations. This paper also carries 250 marks. The marks secured in this paper determine the rank in the final merit list.

6. General Studies Paper 3: This examination tests the knowledge of the candidate in the subjects economy, agriculture, science and technology, environment, biodiversity, disaster management, and internal security. This paper also carries 250 marks. The marks secured in this paper determine the rank in the final merit list.

7. General Studies Paper 4: This examination does not test any knowledge, but the general orientation of the candidate towards topics like ethics, integrity, civil services aptitude, attitude, and emotional intelligence. It also tests the understanding of the candidate for solving real-life ethics case studies. This paper again carries 250 marks. The marks secured in this paper determine the rank in the final merit list.

8. Optional Subject Paper 1: A candidate has to choose from a list of optional subjects. The paper tests the in-depth knowledge of the candidate in this optional subject, and the subject coverage is generally of the level of bachelor’s and master’s degrees in that subject. It also carries 250 marks. The marks secured in this paper determine the rank in the final merit list.

9. Optional Subject Paper 2: This paper is the extension of Paper 1 and also carries 250 marks. The marks secured in this paper determine the rank in the final merit list.


Thus, the main examination carries a total of 1750 marks. These marks are very crucial in determining the final rank of a candidate. The medium of the examination can be either English language or any other language from those mentioned in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

1.3.3 The Personality Test/Interview

Around 2500–3500 candidates from those that appear in the main examination are shortlisted and called for appearing at the final stage of the Civil Services Examination, i.e., in the personality test/interview. It is the final effort a candidate makes in order to convert himself/herself from a civil service aspirant into a civil servant.

As stated by the UPSC, the purpose of the interview is to “assess the personal suitability of the candidate for a career in public service.” It follows from this that the interview process is geared towards judging the personal suitability of the candidate for Civil Services. The process judges the candidate on qualities like his/her bent of mind, ability to analyse a situation from all angles, awareness of current issues, ethical values, coherence in views, mental alertness, balance of judgment, integrity, objectivity, and concern for the weaker sections of the society.

The Civil Service Personality Test is an unstructured discussion in which the interviewers allow a natural course to be followed. They provide an environment in which the candidate can give his/ her views in a calm manner. It carries 275 marks.

The whole examination process, i.e., the main examination and the personality test, carries a total of 2025 marks. The number of marks a candidate secures, out of these 2025 marks, determines their final ranking in the examination.

1.3.4 Services Recruited through the Civil Services Examination

The civil service allocated to a candidate depends on his/her final rank and his/her service preference. The following services are recruited by the UPSC Civil Services Examination:

1. Indian Administrative Service (IAS)

2. Indian Foreign Service (IFS)

3. Indian Police Service (IPS)

4. Indian Post and Telecommunication Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS)

5. Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IAAS)

6. Indian Revenue Service—Customs and Central Excise (IRS-C&CE)

7. Indian Defense Accounts Service (IDAS)

8. Indian Revenue Service—Income Tax (IRS-IT)


9. Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS)

10. Indian Corporate Law Service (ICLS)

11. Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS)

12. Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS)

13. Indian Railway Account Service (IRAS)

14. Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS)

15. Indian Railway Protection Force (RPF)

16. Indian Defense Estates Service (IDES)

17. Indian Information Service (IIS)

18. Indian Trade Service (ITS)

19. Indian Postal Service (IPoS)

20. Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service (AFHQCS)

21. Delhi and Andaman Nicobar Islands Civil Service (DANICS)

22. Delhi and Andaman Nicobar Islands Police Service (DANIPS)

23. Puducherry Civil Service (PCS)

24. Puducherry Police Service (PPS)

1.3.5 How this Book is Useful for Civil Service Aspirants

The book deals with the roles, responsibilities, career paths, cadre structure, advantages and disadvantages of 23 different All-India Services and Central Civil Services recruited by UPSC. It also contains case studies showcasing the work life, challenges, and ethical dilemmas faced by the civil servants of different Civil Services.

This book is useful for civil service aspirants at the main examination as well as at the interview stage. Following are the advantages of reading this book:

1. For college-going students: This book is an important guide for those college-going youth who are inclined towards joining the Civil Services, and want to know all about the work profile, career path, advantages, and disadvantages of the different services.

2. For filling the DAF: This book provides the candidates with an overview to compare the importance of different Civil Services and helps them in choosing the right preference of service while filling their detailed application form (DAF). The profile, advantages, and disadvantages of the different services provided in this book are useful in carrying out a comparative analysis of all the services. Moreover, the real-life case studies relating to all the services help in understanding the life of serving officers expected from each service.


3. For the General Studies Paper 4: The book contains around 100 real-life ethics case studies. These case studies have been compiled through strenuous efforts and inputs from around 24 serving bureaucrats from the different All-India Services and Central Civil Services. These case studies are very important for the preparation of the paper on Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude.

4. For the Personality Test/Interview: At the interview stage, various questions may be asked to test the knowledge of the candidate on the nature and profile of the different services. Moreover, questions can be asked on the basis of the real-life experiences of serving bureaucrats from different services. Thus, this book is very useful for preparing for the interview as well.

5. For Newly Recruited Bureaucrats: The book is also useful for the newly recruited civil servants undergoing their initial years of training or posting. It will give them an overview of the structure of the various wings of the Indian Government.

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