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IAS (Indian Administrative Service) vs. IRS (Indian Revenue Service)

The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is the most common choice for UPSC civil service exam candidates.

IAS (Indian Administrative Service) vs. IRS (Indian Revenue Service)

The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is the most common choice for UPSC civil service exam candidates. The IFS and IPS are closely followed. This article examines the two services, IAS and the IRS, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of using either. 

Given the power and prestige associated with the profession, the IAS is extremely popular. However, such a life is not without its risks. Political interference and pressure are said to make it difficult for an honest officer to work properly. (For example, consider U Sagayam, an IAS who has been transferred 20 times in 20 years!) In comparison, an IRS officer may be able to live a more peaceful life. Continue reading to learn the distinction between IAS and IRS. Benefits and responsibilities are associated with each service.

Why do UPSC candidates opt for the IAS?

• An IAS officer's social position and reputation far outweigh that of an IRS officer.
• Almost every department in the central and state governments is headed by an IAS.
• An IAS officer receives better facilities and benefits than an IRS officer.
• In comparison to the IRS, the IAS offers promotions more quickly. An IAS officer, for example, can become a Commissioner in about 16 years, whereas an IRS officer can take 20-22 years.
• An IAS officer's job is far more diverse and varied, and he has more opportunities to directly assist people than an IRS officer.
• IAS officers play a larger role in policy formation at the federal and state levels.

Reasons to choose the IRS:

• People who are interested in taxes ought to utilize this service.
• If you are passionate about your chosen field and have the courage to go against popular opinion, you should join the IRS.
• The IRS has a better work-life balance than the IAS.
• Political interference is almost non-existent here.
• If you prefer to live in metropolitan areas, you may prefer the IRS because 80-90 percent of job postings are in urban centers.
• Unlike the IAS, if your spouse also works for the IRS, you can be posted together most of the time.
• The IRS has greater tenure stability.
• In the IRS, most work is done during normal office hours, whereas in the IAS, this is a rare luxury.
• In general, this service is under less pressure than the IAS.