The Ministry of Home Affairs has modified the guidelines for empanelment of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, making it mandatory for officers to serve a minimum of two years on central deputation at the SP/DIG level before being considered for empanelment at the Inspector General (IG) or equivalent level at the Centre.
The new clause applies to IPS officers from the 2011 batch onwards. Officers must now complete at least two years of central experience at SP/DIG or equivalent ranks to qualify for empanelment at the IG level.
The amendment aims to address vacancies at SP and DIG ranks in central postings. By mandating prior central deputation, the government seeks to strengthen leadership pipelines and ensure officers gain adequate exposure to central responsibilities before advancing to higher ranks.
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a formal letter (No. 1-28012/03/2025-IPS.IV) to all Chief Secretaries of state governments, directing them to inform IPS officers in their cadres about the revised guidelines.
