It is hard to decide that IAS vs. IPS vs. IFS: which civil service to choose. Here, we have provided significant details regarding all the services that will help you make an informed choice.
The Indian Civil Services are among the most prestigious and sought-after career options in India.
Among the various civil services, the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS) stand out as the top choices.
Choosing the right civil service can have a profound impact on your career and life.
In this article, we will explore the differences between these three services and help you make an informed decision.
IAS vs. IPS vs. IFS: Understanding the Differences
Let’s understand the difference between the IAS, IPS, and IFS posts.
Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
The IAS is the most popular choice among the aspirants willing to get a job in administration. IAS officers play an important role in the administration and governance of the country.
Their responsibilities include policy implementation, and ensuring the smooth functioning of government machinery at various levels.
Indian Police Service (IPS)
IPS officers are responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing and investigating crimes, and managing the police force.
They often deal with challenging situations and have a significant impact on the safety and security of society.
Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
IFS officers represent India’s interests abroad and deal with diplomatic matters.
They work in Indian embassies and missions worldwide, promoting bilateral relations, trade, and cooperation between India and other countries.
Also read: Is IFS Better than IAS?
What are the Selection Criteria for IAS, IPS, and IFS?
To join these services, candidates must qualify for the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The examination is highly competitive and consists of three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview.
Every aspirant willing to appear in the exam must be a graduate or equivalent from a recognized university and must be between the age group of 20 to 32 years.
Job Profiles and Roles of IAS, IPS, and IFS
The position and profile of IAS, IPS and IFS are as follows:
IAS Roles
IAS officers hold diverse administrative positions, such as District Magistrate, Commissioner, Secretary, and Chief Secretary, depending upon their tenure and performance in service. They are involved in policymaking, development projects, and overall governance.
IPS Roles
IPS officers serve as Deputy Inspector General, Superintendent of Police, or Commissioner of Police. They are responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing and investigating crimes, and managing the police force.
IFS Roles
IFS officers work in Indian missions and embassies abroad. They handle diplomatic tasks, engage in international negotiations, and promote India’s interests in foreign countries.
IAS vs. IPS vs. IFS: Training and Career Progression
Training and career progression-related details of IAS, IPS, and IFS are mentioned below:
Training for IAS
IAS officers undergo a rigorous training program at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. Training includes the Foundation Course and professional training at various stages of their career.
The promotion-related details of an IAS officer is as follows:
Number of Years Needed in Service |
Post in Central Secretariat |
IAS Officer Ranks in State Secretariat |
Designation of IAS Officer in District Administration |
1-4 |
Assistant Secretary |
Undersecretary |
Sub-Divisional Magistrate |
5-8 |
Undersecretary |
Deputy Secretary |
Additional District Magistrate |
9-12 |
Deputy Secretary |
Joint Secretary |
District Magistrate |
13-16 |
Director |
Special Secretary-Cum Director |
District Magistrate |
16-24 |
Joint Secretary |
Secretary-cum Commissioner |
Divisional Commissioner |
25-30 |
Additional Secretary |
Principal Secretary |
Divisional Commissioner |
30-33 |
No Equal Rank |
Additional Chief Secretary |
No Equal Rank |
34-36 |
Secretary |
Chief Secretary |
No Equal Rank |
37+ Years |
Cabinet Secretary of India |
No Equal Rank |
No Equal Rank |
Training for IPS
Every aspirant selected through UPSC for the IPS post must have to go Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) for the foundation course.
Then, IPS officers have to move to Hyderabad for dedicated training. IPS officers receive their training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad, where they learn about law enforcement, investigation, and leadership.
The post and promotion details of an IPS officer are as follows:
- Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP)
- Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
- Additional Superintendent of Police(Addl. SP)
- Superintendent of Police (SP)
- Assistant Inspector General of Police / Senior Superintendent of Police (AIG/SSP)
- Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG)
- Inspector General of Police (IGP)
- Additional Director General of Police (ADGP)
- Director General of Police (DGP)
Training for IFS
The first training program for an IFS officer will start at the LBSNAA( Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration ) in Mussoorie.
The training in LBSNAA continues for 3 months and then after, candidates selected for the IFS have to move to New Delhi for more dedicated training which will be conducted at the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) in New Delhi.
Here, they receive training in diplomacy, international relations, and foreign languages.
IAS, IPS, and IFS: Personal Qualities and Aptitude
Each service demands specific qualities and aptitudes. IAS officers should have strong leadership and administrative skills.
IPS officers need to be physically fit and have a sense of justice.
On the other hand, IFS officers require excellent communication and diplomatic skills.
IAS, IPS, and IFS: Which Civil Service to Choose
After having a detailed background of all the posts it will become easy for aspirants to decide which post shall be chosen. There is no set rule to decide that but it must be chosen by considering their interest in the field.
All the posts have their own difficulties and challenges. Just the form of challenge may be different.
An IAS must face the day-to-day administration-related challenges, on the other hand, an IPS faces law and order related. An IFS faces international-related issues.
It is important to note that people in these positions look after the most important aspects that are very relevant to this country. So, look inside then decide in which field you are most interested.
Conclusion
The choice between IAS, IPS, and IFS is an important decision that can shape your career and life. Each service offers a unique path, and the right choice depends on your individual goals and aptitudes.
Make sure to seek guidance from experts, and choose the civil service that aligns best with your aspirations. Whichever path you choose, a career in the Indian Civil Services is an opportunity to serve the country and make a meaningful impact on society.
In the end, the decision is yours to make, and it’s essential to choose the civil service that aligns with your passion and career objectives. Remember that whichever path you take, you have the opportunity to serve your country and make a positive difference in society.
Also read: Upto Which Rank Can An Aspirant Get Into IAS, IPS, or IFS?
Article Written By: Priti Raj
Victor says
So far I understood first 100 rank awarded IAS second category physical fitness awarded as IPS communication skill awarded IFS