Staying updated on recent developments regarding the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) is crucial for aspirants aiming to join these esteemed services. Here’s a concise overview of the latest news and trends:

1. Vacancies in IAS and IPS

As of January 1, 2024, there is a notable shortfall in the sanctioned strength of IAS and IPS officers. The IAS has an authorized strength of 6,858 positions, with only 5,542 currently filled. Similarly, the IPS has 4,984 sanctioned posts, with 4,398 officers in position. This indicates significant vacancies in both services.

2. Demographic Composition of Officers

Between 2018 and 2022, the demographic distribution of newly inducted IAS and IPS officers is as follows:

• General Category: 46%
• Other Backward Classes (OBC): 29.4%
• Scheduled Castes (SC): 15.6%
• Scheduled Tribes (ST): 8.9%

This data reflects the diversity within the civil services during this period.

3. State-Level Decisions on Officer Induction

The Himachal Pradesh government has recently decided against inducting new IAS and IPS officers into the state cadre. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that with a population of approximately 70 lakh, the state does not require the full sanctioned strength of 153 IAS officers. Consequently, the state government has opted not to induct new officers into the cadre.

4. Inspirational Success Stories

The journey of individuals overcoming challenges to join the civil services continues to inspire aspirants:

• Divya Tanwar: Became the youngest IPS officer at the age of 21 after cracking the UPSC exam twice.
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• Pooja Yadav: Transitioned from working as a receptionist to becoming an IPS officer, exemplifying determination and perseverance.
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These stories highlight the diverse backgrounds and resilience of successful candidates.

5. Debates on Recruitment Processes

A recent suggestion by Narayana Murthy to recruit IAS and IPS officers from business schools instead of through the traditional UPSC examination system has sparked discussions. Former IAS officer Sanjeev Chopra defended the existing merit-based process, emphasizing its inclusivity and role in balancing governance with democratic policy-making. This debate underscores differing perspectives on the selection and training of civil servants in India.

Staying informed about these developments is essential for aspirants to understand the evolving landscape of the IAS and IPS services in India.