Shortage of IAS, IPS officers slows decision-making process

THE country's administrative and police services have been gripped by a significant shortage of civil servants, official data showed.

- RAJESH KUMAR THAKUR

As per the data shared in the Rajya Sabha by Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Jitendra Singh, there are 1,316 vacancies in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and 586 in the Indian Police Service (IPS).

A senior IAS officer, who wished anonymity, acknowledged that the shortages are causing a strain in the administrative system. "The shortage of officers has resulted in additional responsibilities for many, with some handling multiple departments. This is affecting the pace of administrative decision-making and the execution of development schemes," the officer said.