IPS Full Form, Indian Police Service, History, Eligibility

The IPS Full Form is Indian Police Service which is one of the three branches of the All India Services (AIS), alongside the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Forest Service (IFoS). It took over from the Indian Imperial Police in 1948. The primary responsibility of an IPS Officer is to ensure public safety by maintaining law and order. They oversee and lead police forces across states and Union Territories, as well as paramilitary forces like the CRPF, BSF, SSB, CISF, ITBP, and the National Security Guards. 

For many young individuals eager to serve their country and its people, the Indian Police Service is recruited through the UPSC CSE Exam 2025 which is conducted annually.

Indian Police Service

The Indian Police Service (IPS) plays an important role in maintaining peace and safeguarding security within society by thoroughly investigating crimes and maintaining public order. IPS Officer is responsible for safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, integrity, and the rule of law. 

New IPS Officers typically start their careers as Additional Superintendents of Police (ASP), a position that serves as an entry point. After promotion in 3-4 years to higher ranks, marking a critical phase in their professional journey. During this time, officers gain valuable field experience, particularly in district administration, which enhances their practical skills and effectiveness in handling law enforcement duties.

IPS History

The Indian Police Service (IPS) position can also be seen back in the British colonial era, where it was referred to as the Imperial Police. After India’s independence, amendments were made that enabled Indian citizens to join this prestigious service. In 1948, the organization was officially renamed the Indian Police Service (IPS).

IPS Eligibility Criteria 

• The aspirant must be a citizen of India.
• The aspirant should be at least 21 years old.
• A degree from a recognized university is required.
• Candidates must meet the physical eligibility criteria for the exam.

Difference between IAS and IPS

The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS) are two separate branches of civil services in India, each with unique responsibilities and areas of focus. IAS officers handle the administrative functioning of the government, engaging in tasks such as policy development, execution, and overseeing government initiatives whereas IPS officers are responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing crimes, investigating offenses, and ensuring the safety of the public. They oversee police operations at various levels, ranging from local police stations to state and national law enforcement agencies.

Explore the Difference between IAS and IPS, covering aspects such as their authority, compensation, ranks, and training methods, offering a detailed comparison of the two services.

IPS Training

The IPS Recruitment is done through the Civil Services Examinations organized by UPSC annually. During the UPSC Application Process, candidates are required to specify their preference for IPS or IAS. The same application form is used for both posts, but the final assignment to either training program will depend on the candidates’ rank and their stated preferences.

Initially, candidates selected for the IPS will undergo a three-month joint training program at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, which is designed as general foundation training. Following this, IPS aspirants will proceed to specialized training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Training Academy in Hyderabad. This training phase typically lasts for a year and focuses on areas such as physical fitness and law enforcement techniques.

Roles and Responsibilities of IPS

The Indian Police Service (IPS) is one of the most prestigious positions in India, holding the responsibility of ensuring internal security across India. Some of the key duties of IPS officers include:

1. IPS officers have the authority to enforce the law
2. They play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s borders, ensuring national security and territorial integrity.
3. Ensuring the security of high-ranking public officials, including ministers and other key figures.
4. IPS officers also handle investigations into economic offenses and cybercrimes.
5. They are involved in detecting crimes, gathering intelligence, and taking necessary actions to promote public safety.
6. IPS officers oversee the functioning of prisons across the country.
7. They are in charge of prestigious agencies such as the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Crime Investigation Departments (CID) in various states, and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
8. IPS officers often serve as heads of departments and contribute to policy making in both central and state ministries.

Salary of an IPS Officer

Salary of an IPS Officer is very fascinating which is determined by the 7th Pay Commission.  Now, the IPS salary is determined by the basic pay along with additional allowances, including TA, DA, and HRA. Below in the table we have shared the IPS Salary in India for various posts:

Top Post for an IPS Officer

• The Head of the Indian Police Service: The Director General of Police (DGP) holds the highest rank in the police force, overseeing law enforcement across the states and Union Territories of India. The DGP leads the state police force in most regions of India. The starting salary for a DGP is typically around Rs. 80,000 per month.
• Cadre Controlling Authority for IPS: IPS Officers can be transferred and assigned to different postings by the Cadre Controlling Authority. The Ministry of Home Affairs serves as this authority, with the Union Home Minister being their reporting superior.