Difference between IAS and IPS - Power, Responsibilities, Salary

Difference between IAS and IPS - Power, Responsibilities, Salary

Edited By Soujanya K | Updated on Feb 14, 2024 05:28 PM IST | #UPSC CSE

Union Public Service Commission conducts the UPSC Civil Services Exam on a yearly basis. The UPSC Civil Services Exams have a reputation for being one of India’s toughest and most competitive exams. This is in part, due to the fact that administrative positions in the government are extremely sought after. Out of these, the most popular positions are those of IAS and IPS.

The IAS and IPS Full Forms are Indian Administration Services and Indian Police Services respectively. Naturally, This sparks a lot of conversation about which position is the better one between IAS or IPS, and which officer wields more powers. Around 10 Lakh candidates appear for the UPSC CSE with the aim of being recruited for the coveted positions of IAS or IPS officers. Those interested in the administration side of the civil services choose to become IAS officers, while those who want to take care of law and order become IPS officers. In the material below, we discuss the nuances of these highly sought-after positions and discuss their similarities and differences in terms of job profiles, salary and power.

What is the Core Difference Between the Role of IAS & Role of IPS?

The core job of an IPS officer is to maintain peace in society, whereas IAS officers implement policies of the government and look after the administration. IAS and IPS collaboratively work towards becoming a part of India's bureaucracy. Both these posts are prestigious; however, there are some technicalities that make them differ from one another.

A detailed look at IAS and IPS differences.

Post

IAS

IPS

Full Form

IAS Full Form is Indian Administrative Service

IPS Full Form is Indian Police Service

Role

The job of an IAS officer is to work in Public Administration and implement government policies, look for irregularities in the system and their designated departments

IPS officers work in the Police services and their prime objective is to look after law and order, investigate crime and maintain public order, maintain peace in festive and riot-like situations etc.

Training

Upon successfully qualifying for the IAS exam, candidates' training will be conducted at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) which is in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand.

The training of IPS Officers will be conducted at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) located in Hyderabad, Telangana

Role/ IAS vs IPS ranks

IAS candidates hold the topmost rank in Indian administration. An IAS officer is assigned to the topmost government departments and ministries.

IPS officers have first recruited a Deputy Superintendent of Police, after which they are promoted according to age and experience and also after cracking any major case. The role of an IPS is of a top cop. IPS comes second to IAS in the hierarchy system.

IAS vs IPS who is more powerful


An IAS is more powerful than an IPS if he/she is a District Magistrate/Collector. As a protocol, an IPS will also have to salute the IAS if in uniform. There is no designated uniform for an IAS, however, they will have to be in formal or closed-neck suits. However, this is also kind of a demerit, as the general public cannot recognise an IAS as there is no dress code.

As a top cop in the city, an IPS is also very powerful and comes just second to the IAS. An IPS can also stop the vehicle or convoy of a VIP or VVIP person, for security purposes etc. The public can recognise an IPS from the uniform. The uniform also brings a lot of pride and enthusiasm.

IAS vs IPS salary

After the recommendation of the 7th pay commission, the basic IAS salary begins at Rs. 56,100, it comes exclusively from the House Rent Allowance (HRA) and Travel Allowance (TA). The salary increases as per promotions, experience and timely increments. The top salary is of Rs, 225000, which is a Cabinet Secretary.

Everything is the same as IAS. The top salary is of Rs. 225000 which is the Director-General of Police (DGP)

Facilities

An IAS is given a personal government vehicle with a chauffeur most probably Toyota Innova, Maruti Ciaz etc. An escort vehicle along with an escort team. Personal bodyguard. Government bungalow. Government guest house for outstation visits. Facility for studies in Foreign countries. Free travel at government expense, and numerous other benefits. VIP treatment anywhere in India and abroad.

The same as IAS, only the choice of vehicle changes. It can be a Mahindra Bolero, Maruti Ertiga etc.

Work-life

The work lives of IAS and IPS both is very demanding. It is not a typical desk job but requires the individual to visit the respective departments frequently. It is a very busy job and requires 24/7 availability. It is also a high-risk job.

Same as IAS.

Promotions

There are a lot of promotion opportunities for an IAS officer. A young IAS officer with age by their side can also spruce to the post of Cabinet Secretary which is the top level job and IAS can also reach to the post of Union Home Secretary.

An IPS officer with a great service record and age by their side can get promoted to the level of IG/DIG or DGP. An IPS can also be appointed as the Director of the Crime Branch of Investigation (CBI), Intelligence Bureau (IB), RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) and National Security Adviser (NSA)

Difference Between the lifestyle of IAS and IPS

The Lifestyle of an IAS Officier

The Lifestyle of an IPS Officer

IAS officers can receive a starting salary of Rs 56,100 with perks such as free or subsidized water, gas and accommodation.

IPS officers can receive a starting salary of Rs 56,100 with perks such as being assigned a domestic helper, a security guard and official vehicles.

IAS Officers may be posted abroad occasionally as those with a good track record can get posted as Indian Ambassadors/High Commissioners

IPS Officers may be posted abroad as a part of a deputation to IB and RAW.

IAS officers enjoy an unparalleled amount of job security.

IPS officers can have good job security.

IAS vs IPS Who is more powerful?

Now coming to the question of what is the difference between IAS and IPS, and who is more powerful? Certainly, an IAS is more powerful, which is the only reason it is the first service in the 244 civil services offered by UPSC. The IAS is then followed by the Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Revenue Services (IRS), Indian Forest Services (IFS), Indian Foreign Services (IFoS) etc.

Check here for a list of other government exams

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is more powerful IAS or IPS?

Both are powerful, but when it comes to practical powers, an IAS is above the IPS.

2. Should I choose IAS or IPS?

It depends on your preference, choice and interest. Both posts are of the same prestige and reputation level.

3. Which post is bigger IAS or IPS?

Hierarchy-wise, IAS is bigger than IPS.

4. Is IPS easier than IAS?

No, both the exams are tough. Candidates will have to qualify for the UPSC CSE (Civil Service Exam) to be eligible to choose between the IAS/IPS or whichever services they want.

5. Do IAS officers get bodyguards?

Yes, IAS officers get bodyguards along with an escort vehicle.

6. What is IPS Salary?

After the 7th pay commission has been levied, the starting salary of an IPS is Rs. 56100 which increases as per experience, promotions and service record.

7. Does an IPS officer have bodyguards?

Yes, IPS officers have bodyguards. In fact, they get an escort team along with an escort vehicle.

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Questions related to UPSC CSE

Have a question related to UPSC CSE ?

Steps to become an IAS officer


Graduation


You should have a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a known university

Arts: History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Sociology

Science: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology

Commerce: Economics, Accountancy, Business Studies

Preparation for UPSC Civil Services Examination:


Study the Syllabus: Learn the syllabus for Preliminary and Main exams.

Choose Elective Subjects: Take elective subjects that you enjoy and have expertise in

Study Material: Reference textbooks, handouts distributed during the coaching and internet resources.

Practice: Previous years' question paper, mock tests, etc

Coaching Institutes: Join a good coaching institute for formal guidance 3. UPSC Civil Services Examination:

Prelims Exam: An objective-type qualifying test that will make you eligible to appear in the Main examination.

Main Exam: Very subjective test which includes all subjects.

Interview: Personality test by a panel of experts.

Important Tips:


Start Early: Better preparation starts early.

Time Management: Manage your time very efficiently.

Consistency: Follow a regular study routine.

Stay Updated: Current affairs and news.

Seek Guidance: Who have an experience can be consulted upon for guidance.

Practice Regularly: Solve the previous year's paper and mock tests.

Stay Positive: Believe in yourself and work hard.

Hence, with these steps and dedication and perseverance, you're sure to achieve your end as an IAS officer.

Hello,

Yes, while IAS (Indian Administrative Services) preparation requires a graduation degree, here are steps you can take to start your IAS journey after completing your 11th standard (BiPC):

  1. Focus on Graduation : Choose a stream for your higher studies that aligns with your interest. Graduation is a mandatory qualification for IAS eligibility.
  2. Early Preparation : Start building a strong foundation in subjects like History, Geography, Economics, and Political Science, which are part of the IAS syllabus.
  3. Develop General Knowledge : Read newspapers daily and follow current affairs magazines to stay updated with national and international news.
  4. Improve Language Skills : Enhance your proficiency in English and one Indian language as per the Civil Services syllabus.
  5. Join Study Circles or Coaching : Enroll in pre-IAS foundation courses available for school students for a head start.
  6. Time Management : Create a balanced study schedule alongside your schoolwork to gradually prepare for the IAS exam.
  7. Participate in Competitions : Engage in essay writing and debates to boost your analytical skills and confidence.

To get more help, you can visit : https://www.careers360.com/careers/ias-officer

Hope it helps 1

Hello there,

Becoming both an IAS officer and a doctor is achievable but requires dedication and clear planning, as each career has distinct educational and examination paths. Here’s a roadmap to help you achieve both:

1. Complete Your MBBS to Become a Doctor

  • Enroll in an MBBS Program : First, you need to qualify for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and get admission to a medical college.

  • Complete Your Medical Degree : The MBBS program typically takes 5.5 years, including an internship.

  • Gain Experience (Optional) : You may choose to practice medicine for a few years to gain clinical experience, but it’s not mandatory if your goal is to pursue IAS right after MBBS.

    2. Prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)

  • Understand the UPSC Exam Structure : The UPSC CSE has three stages—Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, and Interview. You can start preparing while in medical school or after completing MBBS.

  • Choose Your Optional Subject : As a doctor, you may consider taking medical science as your optional subject, though it’s not mandatory.

  • Develop a Study Plan : Balance your medical studies or job with UPSC preparation. Many doctors manage both by allocating dedicated study time each day.

  • Appear for the Exam : With a systematic approach, crack the UPSC exam and qualify for the IAS position.

    3. Career Path as a Doctor-IAS

  • IAS Training and Posting : After clearing UPSC, complete your training and take up your role as an IAS officer. You’ll have a broad scope to influence healthcare, public policy, and social development.

  • Consider Government Health Roles : In administrative roles, you could use your medical background to work in health-related departments, where your knowledge of medicine would be a unique asset.

    Additional Pathways

  • Alternative Approach : You could also join as a doctor in a government hospital and then transition to administration by appearing for the UPSC exam when ready.

  • Health Policy and Administration : Use your medical background in policy formulation or in roles within the Ministry of Health, combining both careers for impactful healthcare reforms.

This dual career path is ambitious but can be very rewarding, allowing you to serve in both the medical and administrative fields.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello aspirant, The answer to this question is no. Both of these areas require your complete commitment and dedication. You can not manage both of these together. Also it is not allowed to do any other profession while performing duties as a IAS officer. If you want to practice medical profession then you have to leave your job.

Thank you

Hope it helps you.

Hello,

When choosing an IAS coaching institute, it's important to consider factors such as faculty quality, study materials, success rate, infrastructure, fees, and student support. Here are some highly regarded IAS coaching institutes in India:

1. Vajiram & Ravi

  • Location: Delhi
  • Pros: Experienced faculty, comprehensive study materials, high success rate.
  • Cons: Relatively expensive.

2. ALS IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with branches in various cities.
  • Pros: Good faculty, structured programs, and regular tests.
  • Cons: Can be costly, and the quality may vary across branches.

3. Vision IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with branches in other cities.
  • Pros: Detailed study materials, current affairs updates, regular mock tests.
  • Cons: Some students find the pace fast.

4. Sriram IAS

  • Location: Delhi
  • Pros: Strong emphasis on comprehensive understanding, quality teaching.
  • Cons: Limited branches compared to others.

5. Drishti IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with a few branches in other cities.
  • Pros: Affordable fees, good study material, and supportive faculty.
  • Cons: Infrastructure might be less impressive.

6. Upkar Institute

  • Location: Multiple cities.
  • Pros: Focus on affordable coaching, quality materials.
  • Cons: Less known compared to the top-tier institutes.

7. The Hindu Zone

  • Location: Online coaching.
  • Pros: Flexibility of online classes, good faculty, and resources.
  • Cons: Online learning might not suit everyone.

Hope it helps !

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