The Indian Economic Service (abbreviated as IES, I.E.S.) is an inter-ministerial[2] and inter-departmental central civil service under Group A[3] of the executive branch of the Government of India. The unique aspect of the service is that the cadre posts are spread across various departments and ministries of central government numbering more than 55. It is a highly specialised and professional service within the Government of India catering to economic analysis and policy advice.[4]
History
The Indian Economic Service was introduced by Prime MinisterJawaharlal Nehru[2] for formulating and implementing economic policies and programmes in India. The initial steps towards formation of service can be traced to 1952.[2] A Committee under V. T. Krishnamachari submitted a report in September 1953, recommending the formation of a service to be known as the Statistical and Economic Advisory Service.[2] On the contrary, Prasanta Mahalanobis did not favour the idea of a combined Statistical and Economic Advisory Service.[2]
The Cabinet in its meeting held on 12 February 1958 decided that two separate services should be formed; a Statistical Service and other an Economic Service.[2] The Indian Economic Service was constituted on 1 November 1961 and the Service Rules were notified on the same date. The actual operationalization of service took place in 1964.[2]
Senior Time Scale (STS)/ Deputy Director/ Assistant Economic Adviser/ Senior Research Officer
114
Junior Time Scale (JTS)/ Assistant Director/ Research Officer
107
Reserves
40
Total authorised strength
518
Training
The direct recruits undergo a comprehensive probationary training comprising various phases ranging from Foundation Course (along with All India Services and Central Civil Services) to Applied Economics at the Institute of Economic Growth (IEG). The training programme also comprises various attachments with institutions of repute all across the country. The training course also has international attachment with Civil Service College, Singapore.[6]
^Manmohan Singh was appointed as a lateral entry to the civil services. The post and rank of Economic Advisor is only present in Indian Economic Service cadre.
^Montek Singh Ahluwalia was appointed as a lateral entry to the civil services. The post and rank of Economic Advisor is only present in Indian Economic Service cadre.
^Professor Dhar was appointed as a lateral entry to the civil services. The post and rank of Economic Advisor is only present in Indian Economic Service cadre.