New Delhi: The Modi government is set to welcome 25 private sector specialists into crucial roles within the central administration, marking a significant step towards enhancing governance efficiency, officials revealed today.
According to media reports, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the appointment of three joint secretaries and 22 directors/deputy secretaries across various central government departments.
Traditionally, positions like joint secretaries, directors, and deputy secretaries are held by officers from all-India services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFoS), among others. However, this latest move reflects the government’s commitment to diversify talent pools by incorporating private sector expertise.
The lateral entry scheme, introduced in 2018, facilitates the recruitment of professionals at the joint secretary, director, and deputy secretary levels, significantly influencing policy formulation. These professionals seamlessly integrate into the government machinery, offering fresh perspectives and skill sets.
In June 2018, the Personnel Ministry invited applications for 10 joint secretary-level positions through lateral entry, marking the scheme’s inception. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) handled the recruitment process, a precedent continued when, in October 2021, the Commission recommended 31 candidates for joint secretaries (3), directors (19), and deputy secretaries (9) roles across various central departments.
To date, 38 private sector specialists, comprising 10 joint secretaries and 28 directors/deputy secretaries, have transitioned into government roles. Presently, 33 such specialists, including eight joint secretaries, 16 directors, and nine deputy secretaries, contribute to key governmental functions. Notably, two joint secretaries have completed their full three-year tenures.
The lateral entry scheme targets roles demanding specialized domain knowledge, sourcing candidates from the private sector, state government, autonomous bodies, and public sector undertakings. This strategic initiative underscores the government’s commitment to harnessing diverse expertise for effective governance.
