To become an IPS officer, a candidate must fulfill the requirements of the UPSC Civil Services Examination, prescribed age limit, educational qualifications, and physical standards. After selection, a year of rigorous training is provided. Deployment, salary, and career growth make it one of the most prestigious services.
Eligibility To Become An IPS: In India, millions of young people dream of becoming an IPS officer every year, but only a few get the opportunity to achieve it. This selection process is conducted through the UPSC Civil Services Examination, which is held across the country. Only those candidates succeed who meet the prescribed age limit, educational qualifications, and physical standards. After selection, they undergo rigorous training in Mussoorie and Hyderabad to enable them to uphold law and order.
What are the Basic Qualifications to Become an IPS?
To become an IPS officer, it is mandatory for the candidate to be an Indian citizen. The age limit is generally set between 21 and 32 years, although reserved categories receive relaxation as per rules. Additionally, graduating from any recognized university is essential.
Physical eligibility is also a crucial part of IPS selection. A minimum height of 165 cm is set for male candidates and 150 cm for female candidates. Some categories are also granted a relaxation of up to 5 cm. Parameters related to vision, chest, and overall fitness are also checked.
The Journey of UPSC Examination and Rigorous Training
The path to becoming an IPS officer goes through the UPSC Civil Services Examination. While filling the form, candidates must enter their preferred services. IPS allocation is based on the rank obtained in the examination and the candidate's preferences.
After selection, both IAS and IPS officers first undergo joint training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie. Subsequently, IPS officers have to undergo approximately one year of rigorous training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, where they receive field and operational training.
Deployment, Salary, and First Posting
The first posting for IPS officers is typically as a DSP. Thereafter, with experience and promotions, they can reach top positions such as SP, DIG, IG, and DGP in the state. At the central level, the command of agencies like CBI, IB, and RAW is also often held by IPS officers.
Regarding salary, according to the 7th Pay Commission, the starting salary begins at Rs 56,100, which can go up to Rs 2,25,000 for top positions. Along with this, government accommodation, vehicles, security, staff, and many other facilities are also provided, making this service even more attractive.
