Becoming an IPS Officer: A Step-by-Step Guide After Completing the 12th Grade

Becoming an officer in the Indian Police Service (IPS) is a momentous achievement for individuals who have completed their 12th grade education in India. The IPS holds a special place in the aspirations of many students across the country. Are you aware of the necessary steps to pursue a career as an IPS officer after completing the 12th grade?

The acronym "IPS" stands for the Indian Police Service, a prestigious government institution that garners immense respect and admiration. Obtaining a position within the IPS is no easy feat; it requires substantial effort and determination. While many individuals aspire to become IPS officers, only a select few succeed in making their dreams a reality. This career choice is not for the faint-hearted, as it demands significant dedication and perseverance.

Often, people tend to perceive those who are selected for the IPS examination as merely lucky individuals. However, this perspective fails to acknowledge the struggles and hardships that these individuals have endured. The late-night study sessions, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment displayed by IPS officers serve as an inspiration to many. The path to becoming an IPS officer entails successfully navigating through a series of rigorous tests, including both written assessments and physical and medical examinations.

Upon successfully completing the required training and passing all examinations, individuals officially earn the esteemed title of an IPS officer. It is a noteworthy achievement that signifies the culmination of their preparation and dedication.

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The Government of India provides various perks and benefits to IPS officers. Here, I have compiled a list of some of these privileges:

- Security Guard

- Social Respect

- Officer Vehicle

- Free Electricity

- Medical facilities

- Rent-free Accommodation

- Study leave with pay for a duration of two years

Regardless of their posting, IPS officers bear the primary responsibility of upholding the law and safeguarding the public. Their duties encompass investigating offenses related to prohibited substances, ensuring the proper maintenance of prisons and correctional facilities, apprehending economic criminals, preventing future offenses, overseeing traffic efficiency, ensuring national security, and safeguarding railway passengers. Furthermore, IPS officers play a vital role in disaster management and are entrusted with the security of VIPs and the protection of the country's borders.

To pursue a career as an IPS officer following the 12th grade, individuals must first clear the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. Every year, lakhs of students appear for this examination with the hope of securing a position in the IPS; however, only a handful manage to successfully clear the exam. There is considerable competition for positions within higher civil services. Let's delve into the eligibility requirements:

- Contenders must be Indian citizens to be considered for IAS and IPS posts.

- Candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in any field from a recognized college.

Age restrictions vary based on different categories:

- General category: 21 to 32 years

- OBC category: 21 to 35 years

- SC/ST category: 21 to 37 years

Important dates in the IPS selection process are as follows:

- Release of application forms: February

- Preliminary examination: June

- Mains examination: September

- Interview: December/January

The examination fees are as follows:

- General category: Rs 100

- OBC category: Rs 100

- Female/PWD/SC/ST candidates: Rs 0

Now, let's outline the specific requirements for male and female candidates:

For Male:

- Height should be 165 cm, with a relaxation of 5 cm for SC/ST/OBC candidates.

- Chest should measure 84 cm with an expansion of 5 cm.

- Eyesight should be 6/6 or 6/9.

For Female:

- Height should be 150 cm.

- Chest should measure 79 cm with an expansion of 5 cm.

- Eyesight should be 6/12 or 6/9.

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As we are all aware, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts an annual civil service examination. The Civil Service Exam comprises of three stages.

To qualify for the main exam, you must clear the preliminary exam. The marks obtained in the preliminary exam are not counted. The preliminary exam consists of two rounds.

1. General Studies:

• Total marks: 200
• Total questions: 100
• Duration: 2 hours

2. CSAT – Civil Service Aptitude Test:

• Total marks: 200
• Total questions: 80
• Duration: 2 hours

Mains Exam:

In the mains exam, you are required to clear a total of 9 papers, including two language papers. The marks obtained in the language papers will not be counted.

There are Two Language Papers:

• General Studies Paper 1: 250 marks
• General Studies Paper 2: 250 marks
• General Studies Paper 3: 250 marks
• General Studies Paper 4: 250 marks

The interview carries a weightage of 275 marks. Candidates who qualify for the main exam will be called for the interview, which will be conducted by a board of nominated members from UPSC.

CategoryAge LimitNumber of Attempts

General Category: 21 to 32 years: 6 attempts

OBC Category: 21 to 35 years: 9 attempts

SC/ST Category: 21 to 37 years: Unlimited attempts until age limit is reached

Note: These attempts will only be counted if the candidate appears in the Prelims exam.

Once you become an IPS officer, you will receive an entry-level salary. As you get promoted to higher posts, your salary will also increase. The government of India also periodically gives increments in salaries for IAS or IPS officers.

• IPS Officer Post: Entry Level Salary is Rs 50,100 per month, including allowances such as TA, DA, and HRA.
• Director of IB (DI)/Director General of Police (DGP) or CBI: Pay Scale is Rs 2,25,000 per month.
• Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP): Salary is Rs 67,700 per month.
• Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP): Salary is Rs 56,100 per month.

This is the complete process of becoming an IPS officer after completing the 12th grade. If your dream is to become an IPS officer, you must study smart and work hard. I hope you find this information valuable. Please share it with your friends who aspire to become IPS officers.

1. Who was the first IPS officer in India?

In 1948, C.V. Narasimhan topped the examination and became one of the first IPS officers in the country. He was awarded the President's Revolver at the National Police Academy.

2. Who was the first female IPS officer in India?

Kiran Bedi, born on June 9, 1949, is India's first woman Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. She is also known for her political career, social activism, and achievements in tennis.

3. Is it possible to pursue a career in IPS after completing the 12th grade?

Regrettably, there are no avenues to enter the IPS profession after completing the 12th grade. The minimum educational requirement is a graduation degree.

4. Can spectacles hinder my chances of becoming an IPS officer?

No, possessing spectacles does not impede your path to becoming an IPS officer. However, it is essential to have excellent eyesight (6/6) regardless of wearing glasses or not.