Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is one of the most prestigious and challenging services in the country. The journey of the life cycle of an IAS officer passes through many important stages, from the beginning to the last phase of service. Understanding this life cycle can help in planning an advanced and successful career.
1. Education and preparation
Becoming an IAS starts with a good education. Most of the IAS officers study from good schools and colleges. First they complete their graduation (BA, BSc etc.) and then pursue postgraduate degree (MA, MSc etc.). After this, they prepare for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. This exam is very difficult and requires a lot of time and effort. Candidates have to prepare through General Studies, Subject Based Studies and Mock Tests.
2. UPSC Exam
To become an IAS, it is mandatory to pass the UPSC exam. There are three main stages of this examination:
Preliminary Exam: It consists of objective questions, such as General Studies and Current Affairs.
Main Examination: It consists of descriptive essay questions in which the candidate has to answer in detail.
Interview: This is the last stage, in which the thinking abilities and personality of the candidate are examined.
3. training
After passing the examination, selected candidates are sent for training for the Indian Administrative Service. This training takes place in two parts:
IAS Academy: Here candidates are given information about administrative work, law, and management.
State Administrative Training Centre: In this part they get acquainted with the actual administrative work and local issues.
4. Start of service
After completing training, IAS officers are posted in various states or union territories. Initially they work as Deputy District Magistrate (SDM), District Magistrate (DM), and other administrative posts. In these positions, they work to implement government schemes, solve public problems, and maintain law and order.
5. Middle and higher positions
With time, IAS officers reach higher positions on the basis of experience and skills. As their services grow, they can become secretaries, additional secretaries, and heads of key departments. In these positions, their responsibilities are even greater, such as formulating policy, inspecting schemes, and handling important government functions.
6. Retirement and social contribution
When an IAS officer’s services expire, he retires. After retirement, many officers remain active in society. They participate in NGOs, educational institutions, and social work. By using their experience and knowledge they try to improve the society.
