21st August 2024 (10 Topics)
1
Aug
2
Aug
3
Aug
5
Aug
6
Aug
7
Aug
8
Aug
9
Aug
10
Aug
12
Aug
13
Aug
14
Aug
15
Aug
16
Aug
17
Aug
19
Aug
20
Aug
21
Aug
22
Aug
23
Aug
24
Aug
26
Aug
27
Aug
28
Aug
29
Aug
30
Aug
31
Aug
Lateral Entry Controversy
Context
The Union Public Service Commission's (UPSC) decision to seek "talented and motivated Indian nationals" for lateral recruitment to senior positions within the country's bureaucracy kicked up a major row. The move was criticised for not having any reservations for Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) candidates in the lateral entry into the bureaucracy.
What is Lateral Entry?
- Lateral entry allows the government to hire individuals from outside the usual recruitment processes directly into mid-level and senior positions.
- This is intended to bring in specialized skills and new perspectives to improve governance.
- Those hired through lateral entry are initially on three-year contracts, which can be extended up to five years.
- Origins of the Scheme
- 1966: The idea was discussed by the First Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) under Morarji Desai. Although not specifically advocating for lateral entry, the commission emphasized the need for specialized skills in the bureaucracy.
- 2005: The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) endorsed the concept as a way to improve expertise and bring fresh viewpoints.
- 2017: The NITI Aayog recommended lateral entry in its Action Agenda to enhance the central government’s capabilities.
Controversy Over Reservations
- Lateral entry positions are not covered by the reservation system (which includes quotas for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)).
- This is because these positions are considered "Single Posts" under the "13-point roster" policy, meaning the reservation quotas do not apply.
- As a result, lateral entry appointments can be made without adhering to reservation guidelines, leading to criticism for not including reserved categories.
Courses
Study
Notes
Home
Resources
More
