Modi Government's New Strategy: Will It Boost IAS Representation at the Centre?

Changes in IAS Selection Rules

The Modi administration has recently modified its criteria for appointing joint secretaries, aiming to motivate more IAS officers to assume central positions. As of 2023, there are only 442 IAS officers serving at the Centre, significantly fewer than the 1,469 positions that are deemed necessary, highlighting a substantial shortfall.

With the new regulations, officers who have spent two years as under-secretaries can now advance directly to joint secretary roles, bypassing the previous requirement of serving as a director or deputy secretary first. While officials describe this as 'broadening the pool,' it can be seen as a subtle push for officers to make a choice.

This adjustment has intensified the ongoing struggle between state and central authorities. Officers now face a dilemma: remain in a comfortable district DM position or transition to the Centre, adapt to a different bureaucratic environment, and aim for higher roles. One officer remarked that it feels like a 'do-or-die' situation—missing out on a Centre posting could mean losing the chance for a joint secretary role permanently.

However, there seems to be a disconnect. Many analysts believe that moving to the under-secretary level offers little incentive. Why would someone leave a prominent local position to become a junior staff member at North Block, especially with reduced benefits? Thus, the question remains: has this truly increased the IAS presence at the Centre? Likely not, at least for now.

Additionally, there are concerns about fairness. Officers engaged in discussions with their state governments regarding transfers feel trapped, as their states are hesitant to release them. This situation effectively excludes them from Centre opportunities even before they can apply.

While this policy change indicates a desire for reform, it also reflects a tendency for top-down management. The Centre seeks to bolster its ranks, while states are reluctant to let go of their officers. Consequently, individual officers find themselves caught in a bureaucratic dilemma.

Amitabh Kant's Departure as G20 Sherpa

Amitabh Kant bows out as G20 Sherpa—a curtain call, not an exit

Amitabh Kant, who has served as India’s G20 Sherpa since 2022 and previously as CEO of NITI Aayog, has concluded his tenure, marking the end of a distinguished career spanning 45 years. Few officials have consistently found themselves in the right place at the right time, equipped with the necessary skills.

During his time as Sherpa, Kant played a pivotal role in guiding India through the high-profile 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi. He was instrumental in building consensus on critical issues such as climate change and development, while also adeptly managing geopolitical challenges, including the contentious Russia-Ukraine discussions. His contributions went beyond mere speeches; he focused on achieving tangible results amidst complex international dynamics.

Kant's influence extends beyond his Sherpa role. His leadership at NITI Aayog laid the groundwork for India's burgeoning startup ecosystem and national innovation missions, establishing a policy framework that occasionally cut through bureaucratic obstacles.

As he hints at future endeavors focused on promoting free enterprise and startups, there is hope that he will continue to champion significant ideas without allowing them to be lost in bureaucratic processes. Although his G20 responsibilities are behind him, it seems that Amitabh Kant's relevance is far from over.

Bureaucratic Relocation Underway

Babus’ big migration begins

The bureaucratic landscape is shifting as officials prepare to relocate to three new towers in the Central Vista area. Ministries have been instructed to gather their files and personal items as they transition to the Common Central Secretariat, with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs leading the charge.

This move has been long anticipated. For years, government departments have been dispersed across aging buildings in Delhi. Consolidating them under one roof is expected to enhance coordination, minimize redundancy, and potentially save taxpayer money on inter-departmental communications.

However, effective governance involves more than just physical relocation. Simply moving to a new building does not resolve issues related to delays, jurisdictional disputes, or the common practice of measuring productivity by the volume of paperwork. Upgraded facilities alone will not expedite processes.

Nonetheless, the symbolism of this move is significant. The Modi administration has positioned the Central Vista as a representation of a more decisive and aspirational India. The new structures are designed to embody a forward-looking vision, but the real challenge lies in whether the bureaucratic mindset will evolve accordingly.

While this relocation is a positive step, it is essential to recognize that the more challenging aspects of governance reform are still ahead. True transformation will depend on how officials think, act, and collaborate, rather than merely where they are located.

Conclusion

By Dilip Cherian