Shortage of IAS Officers

In News: At least 26 states of India have less number of Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officials than sanctioned strength. This is the situation when India is the first country in the world where a unique model, called ‘National Standards for Civil Services Training Institutions’ (NSCST), has recently been launched for the training of civil servants.

• The number of IAS officials currently stands at 5,317 against the sanctioned strength of 6,789.
• According to data, among the sanctioned strength of 6,789, 4,712 are to be recruited through UPSC while the remaining via state civil services.
• Although the Union government claims to have started recruiting 180 IAS officers directly annually since 2012 following the recommendation of the Baswan Committee, the shortages still persist.

The Effect: The gap between sanctioned and available strength is hampering policy-making and implementation of national welfare schemes in the states.

Must Read: Link 1

Source: Newindian Express