Even as Rajasthan faces acute shortage of IAS officers for effecting ‘good governance', a handful of officers are making their way to central deputation.
As against the sanctioned strength of 332 IAS, Rajasthan currently has 255 officers – 76% of the total cadre strength. Out of that 255 officers, 17 officers are already on central deputation while two have got the posting in centre and would be joining soon. Besides that three officers are awaiting their posting order, which can be out any time within two months. One officer – Bhanu Sharma of 2024 batch – is undergoing training at LBSNAA, Mussoorie.
“So in next couple of months, Rajasthan will be left with 232 officers serving in home cadre – 100 officers short of the total sanctioned strength,” said an official of personnel department.
Chief secretary left with little choice
It will be tough time for chief secretry to man offices with depleted strength and fulfil the commitment of good governance. Many performing officers are discharging their duties at centre. There are few left to handle sensitive postings in the state.
“Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant is using all his wisdom and experience in reshuffling his men to place right man at right job. However, he can't help burdening officers with additional responsibilities. So far he has done a good job in managing administration with limited resources,” said former IAS RC Jain.
According to sources, Rajasthan will get 27 more IAS through promotion. Of that 19 are likely to be from state administrative service while 8 will be from other services.
“The department of personnel has started the process and within 6-8 months, officers may get promoted,” said the officer from personnel department.
Vivek Shukla is a management graduate who has worked in corporate worked for 20 years and is now pursuing his passion — news.
