How to Prepare for the IPS (Indian Police Service) Exam? A Comprehensive Guide
The IPS (Indian Police Service) is considered one of the most prestigious positions after the IAS (Indian Administrative Service), operating at both the state and central levels. Eligibility, examination, and application procedures for IPS, IAS, IRS, and IFS are, however, all the same. For those aspiring to become an IPS officer, this article will guide you through the preparation process.
What is IPS?
First, let's understand what an IPS officer is and their duties. The IPS service is a distinct position providing leadership to state police and all Indian central armed police forces. Established in 1948, the Ministry of Home Affairs is authorized to control the IPS officer cadre. The controlling authority of the IPS cadre rests with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
A primary responsibility of an IPS officer is maintaining law and order, preventing and managing accidents, deterring and investigating notorious criminals and crimes, and managing traffic. An IPS officer can rise to the position of Director General of Police in their state. At the central level, an IPS officer can become a Director of institutions like the CBI, IB, and RAW, as well as a National Security Advisor.
What is the full form of IPS?
The full form of IPS is "Indian Police Service".
How to Prepare for IPS After 10th Standard?
While one cannot directly sit for the IPS examination after 10th standard, you can begin preparing from 10th standard itself through the following:
- First, gain a thorough understanding of the examination process.
- Comprehend the syllabus of the examination.
- Collect study material for strategy and preparation.
- Focus intently on your studies.
- Practice writing alongside your studies.
- Conduct regular mock tests.
- Read newspapers and magazines daily.
Books for IAS Preparation (Useful for IPS too):
- M. Laxmikanth (Politics)
- Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania (Culture)
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong (Geography)
- Oxford School Atlas by Oxford Publishers (Geography)
- Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh (Economy)
- A Concise History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir (Modern India)
How to Prepare for IPS After 12th Standard?
The first step towards becoming an IPS officer is to successfully complete your 12th standard with good marks. You can choose any subject of your interest for your 12th standard.
Complete Your Graduation in Any Stream
After completing your 12th standard, you must obtain a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. You cannot apply for the UPSC Civil Services Examination without a graduation degree. Therefore, if you haven't completed your graduation yet, start with any stream (Arts, Science, Commerce, or Maths) of your choice.
Apply for the UPSC Examination
Now apply online for the IPS exam through the official UPSC website. As mentioned before, the IPS exam is conducted by the UPSC. Based on the IPS exam pattern defined by the UPSC, this examination and entire selection process are divided into three stages:
1. Preliminary Examination
2. Mains Examination
3. Interview
Pass the UPSC Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is the first step towards becoming an IPS officer and is also known as the qualifying paper. It is held between June and August. All questions in this examination are objective-type, with four options provided for each question. It consists of two papers, each worth 200 marks, for a total of 400 marks. Negative marking applies. The question papers are available in both Hindi and English. Passing this examination qualifies you for the IPS Mains Examination.
Pass the Mains Examination Now
The Mains Examination comprises nine papers, all of descriptive type. Seven papers are merit-based and two are language papers. The questions are of two types: descriptive essay papers and optional papers. After passing both of these examinations, candidates are called for the interview.
Clear the Interview
This is the final stage in becoming an IPS officer. Prominent UPSC officers invite candidates for the interview. This interview is worth 275 marks and lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes. It assesses the candidate's confidence, presentation skills, thoughts, personality, and behavior.
Finally Complete the IPS Training
After successfully completing these three stages, candidates are deemed eligible for IPS training. The IPS training program spans three years and encompasses everything from administration to policing, from minor to major cases. Upon completion of these three years, candidates are appointed as IPS officers and sworn in for the position.
Note: The information provided above is based on various sources and some personal advice. We hope this provides you with the correct direction for your career. For similar latest information on country-wide news, education, employment, and career-related articles, keep visiting Sabkuz.com.
