The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recently withdrew its advertisement for 45 lateral entry posts after facing widespread criticism. The Opposition parties argued that the move would bypass reservation policies and unfairly deprive candidates from Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs) of employment opportunities. This sparked a debate on the merits and demerits of lateral entry into the Indian civil services, with experts weighing in on the need for specialized expertise versus upholding reservation norms.
Ashok Vardhan Shetty, a retired IAS officer, raised concerns about hiring experts for administrative posts. He emphasized that while specialized skills are valuable, administrative positions require a broader understanding of governance and experience in implementation, which are acquired through the rigorous process of the civil services exam and subsequent service. He argued that lateral entrants, who are chosen based on resumes and short interviews, lack the experience and understanding necessary for effective administration. He also drew parallels to Pakistan’s experience with lateral entry, citing it as a cautionary tale of how it can lead to political patronage and corruption.
Harsh Shrivastava, a former CEO of the Microfinance Institutions Network, countered that lateral entry is essential for bringing in specialized expertise in areas like disaster management, semiconductors, and FinTech, where regular civil servants may not possess the required knowledge. He highlighted the need for expertise in policymaking, arguing that lateral entrants could bring fresh perspectives and drive effective policy implementation. He emphasized that lateral entry should be focused on policymaking roles, while the implementation of policies would continue to be the responsibility of generalist IAS officers.
The debate also touched upon the issue of reservations. Shetty argued that lateral entry posts are carved out from existing positions, affecting the promotion prospects of career bureaucrats and violating reservation norms. He criticized the government’s attempt to bypass reservations by treating these posts as “standalone” and applying the exception to reservation rules. Shrivastava countered that these are additional posts and that the government could have introduced reservation preferences for specific categories within the lateral entry pool.
The controversy highlights the complex interplay of expertise, merit, and reservation policies in the Indian civil service. While the need for specialized skills is undeniable, ensuring fairness and inclusivity in the recruitment process remains a crucial concern. The debate also raises questions about the balance between bringing in external talent and fostering a robust, well-rounded, and experienced civil service. As the government reevaluates its lateral entry policy, finding a solution that effectively addresses both the need for specialized expertise and the importance of upholding reservation norms will be essential.
