WHAT DOES A CIVIL SERVANT DO?
IAS officers work in administrative and leadership roles in the central or state governments or in public sector undertakings. The job is perceived as extremely prestigious and important since it’s the IAS officers that chart the path of the country. IAS officers help frame government policies that have a direct impact on people, organizations and even the world.
HOW IS THE GENERAL CAREER TRACK?
At the central level, an IAS officer starts as Under Secretary, becomes deputy secretary, director, joint secretary, additional secretary and secretary.
HOW DOES ONE BECOME A CIVIL SERVANT?
To become an IAS officer, one has to pass the Civil Services Exam. The exam is extremely competitive because only about 800 candidates out of the over five lakh applicants are successful.
IAS aspirants can take the exam after they complete their graduation. Graduates from various disciplines can become IAS officers. So if you aspire to become an IAS officer, study the subjects that interest you in class 11 and 12 and in your graduation so that you can enjoy your learning. There is no particular stream or subjects you need to choose in classes 11 and 12 and in graduation.
WHAT ARE SOME SOFT CONSIDERATIONS TO KEEP IN MIND?
While the job is extremely important, it has its share of challenges. State level IAS officers can get posted in small towns and are frequently transferred. Be sure you will enjoy living in different places. It requires working in the government bureaucracy. People believe that the government bureaucracy does not operate too efficiently. It can be frustrating to work in the government if you are someone who likes his actions translated into results quickly. Finally, Government jobs are not as financially rewarding as jobs with similar responsibilities and importance in private organizations.
To know about other Government Jobs, click here.
If the above realities did not dissuade you and you are passionate about contributing directly to the development of the country, go ahead and plan to be an IAS officer. Remember, you are looking to build a brilliant academic record. The entrance is extremely competitive and only the academically brilliant make it through.
To know more about what is it like to work for the Government, click here.
