Reflections on a Career in the IAS: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

Insights from a Retired IAS Officer

By DV PRASAD IAS (Retd)

Having served as an IAS officer for over 36 years, I often found my career dominated by urgent issues, protocol responsibilities, and the management of critical situations, all while juggling routine administrative duties.

While these tasks are undeniably important, I feel that significant contributions to national policy and development are primarily made by those at the highest levels of the bureaucracy.

This perspective was shared by Rajasthan's new Energy Secretary, also an IAS officer, who pointed out the difficulties of transitioning from one crisis to another amidst ongoing administrative obligations. Given India's large population and the necessity for maintaining order and compliance, it may be time to redefine the role of IAS officers to focus more on managing crises that affect economic stability.

I do not intend to downplay the essential work performed by many IAS officers; rather, I propose that the landscape has evolved. The time when IAS officers were seen primarily as nation-builders may be behind us. Their roles might need to shift towards prioritizing crisis management to foster a stable environment conducive to economic growth and development.

This reflection aims to recognize the changing dynamics of governance and the need for bureaucrats to adapt their roles accordingly.

A Defining Experience in Crisis Management

As a young IAS officer, I encountered a reality that starkly contrasted with my upbringing in the secular environments of Hyderabad Public School and St. Stephen's College. The communal tensions in Kolar District during the 1989-90 Rath Yatra were particularly striking. The atmosphere was charged, necessitating immediate action to prevent further unrest.

As the District Collector, I faced tough decisions to restore order. Implementing a curfew for over two months in Kolar Town was a last resort, but it was essential to stabilize the situation and allow economic activities to resume. This challenging period imparted valuable lessons about crisis management, leadership, and the importance of fostering peace within a community.

This experience was pivotal in my career, highlighting the complexities of governance in a diverse nation like India and underscoring the need for empathy, understanding, and decisive action during crises.

The Nature of Daily Responsibilities

Throughout my career, I encountered numerous incidents, but I prefer not to disclose all of them. I served as Secretary to the Chief Minister during a coalition government, where political dynamics were complex.

As an officer, managing daily operations often involved significant firefighting. The role of Secretary to the Chief Minister differs greatly from that of Secretary to the Prime Minister. In state governance, MLAs are more accessible and involved than MPs, necessitating constant interaction with the Chief Minister.

Had I not pursued a career in the IAS, I would have likely become a lawyer. However, I have no regrets, as the IAS has provided me with unparalleled variety and exposure that no other profession could offer.

My responsibilities spanned various sectors, from land revenue to medical education and infrastructure. I have held numerous positions, including Home Secretary and Joint Secretary in the Government of India, where I was the Chief Negotiator for Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), engaging in negotiations globally, including at WIPO in Geneva.

This role required a blend of diplomacy and domain knowledge, skills not typically emphasized in IAS training.

Global Opportunities and Experiences

This career allowed me to travel extensively. During my international assignments, I often relied on convenient meals like packaged Bisi Bela Bath. My travels took me to various countries, including Brazil, the US, and multiple trips to Geneva for negotiations.

My tenure in the Government of India was particularly enjoyable, as it focused on policy rather than immediate crisis management, allowing for a more stable work environment.

In this role, the files often returned with minimal changes, reflecting the technical nature of the work. Even now, during ongoing trade negotiations with the US, it is the Joint Secretary who possesses the most knowledge, not even the Secretary.

Looking back, I am grateful that I chose the IAS over a legal career, as it has provided me with a diverse range of experiences.

Reflections on a Rewarding Career

One regret I have is that, despite being honest in my work, financial security can be a concern. While IAS officers enjoy job security until retirement, many of my peers in the private sector have achieved greater financial stability.

Although my salary was reasonable when I joined in the 1980s, it may not compare favorably for new recruits against private sector salaries. The 8th Pay Commission may improve pensions and benefits, but adjustments at higher levels often necessitate changes across the board.

The variety of assignments in the IAS has been one of its greatest strengths. We become well-rounded individuals, mastering some areas while gaining insights into many others.

My journey in the IAS has been intellectually enriching and stimulating.

Navigating Challenges During the Pandemic

While firefighting is a constant in state governance, it is less frequent at the central level. However, the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges, requiring extensive coordination among various departments, including Railways, Health, and Food Corporation of India.

During the pandemic, our team at FCI Headquarters in Delhi operated with a skeleton crew, managing the largest food grain distribution across the nation.

The strategies developed during this period have been incorporated into training manuals for civil servants, showcasing effective crisis management.

A Journey of Knowledge and Perspective

Coming from a privileged background instilled confidence in me, but my career as an IAS officer provided invaluable knowledge and intellectually stimulating opportunities.

My upbringing in Delhi, where my grandfather was a prominent political figure, offered me a unique perspective on life. However, my initial role in the Indian Railways after my first attempt at the Civil Services exam was memorable and nostalgic, leading me to successfully join the IAS and serve in the Karnataka cadre.

Overall, my journey has been fulfilling and aligns with my existential worldview.