Lateral entry into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) through the UPSC is a process where experienced professionals from the private sector, public sector, or academia are recruited directly into mid-level positions within the government. This initiative aims to bring in fresh perspectives, specialized skills, and expertise to enhance the effectiveness of governance.

Key Features of Lateral Entry:

1. Eligibility: Typically, professionals with at least 15 years of experience in relevant fields and a proven track record of leadership and expertise are eligible. The minimum age requirement is usually around 40 years.
2. Selection Process: The recruitment process for lateral entry is managed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It usually involves:
   • Screening based on qualifications and experience.
   • Personal interviews conducted by a panel.
   • The selection is merit-based, focusing on the candidate’s professional achievements, domain expertise, and suitability for the role.
3. Positions: Lateral entry recruits are typically appointed to positions at the Joint Secretary level or above in various ministries and departments.
4. Contractual Basis: Appointments through lateral entry are usually on a contractual basis, typically for a period of 3 to 5 years, with the possibility of extension based on performance.
5. Objective: The primary goal of lateral entry is to infuse new talent and ideas into the government, particularly in areas that require specialized knowledge, such as economics, infrastructure, health, and technology.

Challenges and Criticisms:

• Integration with Regular Cadre: There can be challenges in integrating lateral entrants with the existing bureaucratic cadre, leading to potential friction.
• Short-Term Contracts: Since lateral entrants are often on short-term contracts, there may be concerns about their commitment to long-term governance goals.
• Transparency in Selection: While UPSC ensures a rigorous selection process, there are sometimes concerns about transparency and fairness in the recruitment process.

Recent Developments:

The government has been expanding the scope of lateral entry, with more positions being advertised in various ministries. This reflects the increasing emphasis on bringing in domain experts to handle complex and specialized tasks in governance.

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