Indian Police Service (IPS), Job Profile, Salary, Training, Career Path
Deeksha Dixit8 Sept, 2025
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The Indian Police Service (IPS) is one of the top ‘Group A’ civil services in India, created under Article 312 of the Constitution. Every year, thousands of aspirants dream of wearing the IPS uniform and serving the nation. From maintaining law and order to leading state and central police forces, IPS officers play a key role in national security. Read on to learn its history, job profile, training, salary, career path, and much more.
What is Indian Police Service?
The Indian Police Service (IPS) is one of the All India Services. It works under the Ministry of Home Affairs. IPS officers are responsible for public safety, law enforcement, and internal security. They are recruited through the UPSC Civil Services exam and lead the police force and other security units like the CBI, IB, NIA, and CRPF.
| IPS Overview | |
| IPS Full Form | Indian Police Service |
| Established | 1948 (replaced Indian Imperial Police) |
| Constitutional Provision | Article 312 |
| Headquarters | Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India |
| Training | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, Hyderabad |
| Selection | Civil Services Examination conducted by UPSC |
| Key Responsibilities | Law enforcement, counterterrorism, VIP security, intelligence, disaster management, and leadership of CAPFs (e.g., BSF, CRPF, NSG) |
| Promotion | Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) to Director General of Police (DGP), with 8-9 intermediary ranks |
| State Cadres | Organized into 26 state cadres, reviewed every 5 years |
| Salary Range | ₹56,100 to ₹225,000 monthly (varies by rank and pay matrix level) |
| Cadre Strength | 5,047 authorized positions (4,756 filled) |
| Website | ips.gov.in |
Indian Police Service History
The present Indian Police Service was established in 1948, after India gained independence. Before IPS, the British used the Indian Imperial Police system to control law and order. After independence, the Government of India decided to create a new system under Indian control. Here is the timeline of IPS history:
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1893: First open civil service exams held in England for the Imperial Police (IP).
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1907: Officers recruited through competitive exams directed to wear "IP" on epaulettes for identification.
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1948: After Independence, the Imperial Police was replaced by the Indian Police Service (IPS).
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1979–1981: National Police Commission formed (post-Emergency). Released 8 reports, including a Model Police Act.
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2005–2006: The Malimath Committee (headed by Soli Sorabjee) drafted a new Model Police Act.
IPS Officer Job Profile
The IPS Officer job profile includes a wide range of duties. Their main job is to ensure public safety and maintain law and order. An IPS officer leads the district police, investigates crimes, handles protests, and manages emergencies. Here are some of the key roles played by IPS officers:
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Law & Order: Prevent crime, control riots/protests, ensure public safety.
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Criminal Investigation: Lead major cases, gather evidence, and prosecute offenders.
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Counterterrorism: Work with NIA, IB, and NSG to combat threats and secure borders.
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VIP Security: Safeguard top officials during events and travel.
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Disaster Management: Lead emergency response during natural disasters and crises.
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Intelligence Operations: Collect and analyze intel to prevent crimes and terror acts.
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Central Deputation: Head central agencies like CBI, RAW, and CAPFs (BSF, CRPF, CISF).
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Enforcement Duties: Tackle smuggling, drugs, and enforce laws on the environment, labor, and corruption.
The IPS Officer job role demands strong leadership, quick decision-making, and ethical behaviour as their work impacts the lives of millions.
Indian Police Service Exam
To become an IPS officer, one must clear the Indian Police Service exam conducted by UPSC. This exam is one of the toughest in India. It is also known as the Civil Services Examination (CSE). The exam has three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Apart from clearing the exam, candidates must meet specific physical standards such as height, chest, and eyesight to be selected as IPS officers.
Also Read, IPS Physical Eligibility
Last Rank for IPS
The last rank for IPS selection depends on the category and number of vacancies. In recent years, the last rank for IPS in the General category has been around 240-270. For reserved categories, the rank may go up to 550 or more. However, the last rank for IPS varies each year depending on the competition and performance.
Here last rank allotted to IPS based on the 6th Iteration of UPSC 2023 service allocation:
| Category | IPS Last Rank |
| General | 232 |
| EWS | 517 |
| OBC | 636 |
| SC | 865 |
| ST | 858 |
Also Read, ‘How to Become an IPS Officer?’
IPS Career Path
The IPS career path is dynamic and rewarding. It starts with the post of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). Over time, officers can get promoted to Superintendent of Police (SP), Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Inspector General (IG), and Director General of Police (DGP). Promotions in IPS are based on experience, performance, and seniority as follows:
Credit:cipsa.in
IPS Training Centre
The IPS training centre is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad. This is where selected IPS officers undergo rigorous training for nearly two years. The training includes physical drills, weapon handling, cybercrime, forensic science, and more.
Trainees also learn law, policing skills, and leadership ethics. Outdoor activities such as horse riding, swimming, and shooting are part of the schedule. The IPS training prepares officers to face real-world challenges with confidence and discipline.IPS Officer Salary
The IPS officer salary is as per the 7th Pay Commission. An entry-level IPS officer earns around ₹56,100 per month. With promotions, the salary can go up to ₹2,25,000 per month (DGP level). Apart from salary, IPS officers get benefits like house allowance, travel allowance, official vehicle, and pension. Here is per-month salary of IPS officers:
| Rank | Salary |
| Deputy SP | INR 56,100 |
| Additional SP | INR 67,700 |
| Superintendent of Police | INR 78,800 |
| DIG | INR 1,31,100 |
| IG | INR 1,44,200 |
| Additional Director General of Police | INR 2,05,400 |
| DGP | INR 2,25,000 |
| DG | INR 2,50,000 |
Famous IPS Officers
Many Famous IPS Officers have served the nation with courage and honesty. Here are some inspiring names:
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Kiran Bedi: India’s first woman IPS officer and former Lt. Governor of Puducherry.
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Julio Ribeiro: Known for reforms in the Punjab Police and anti-terror operations.
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Ajit Doval: Former IPS officer and current National Security Advisor.
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D. Roopa Moudgil: Known for exposing irregularities in prison systems.
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Narendra Kumar: Martyred while confronting sand mafia in MP. Known for anti-illegal mining crackdowns
Awards/Medals for IPS Officers
IPS officers who serve with distinction receive several honours. These Awards/Medals for IPS officers recognize bravery, leadership, and commitment to duty. Some major Awards/Medals for IPS Officers include:
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President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG).
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Medal for Gallantry (GM).
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President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM).
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Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM).
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Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak.
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Parakram Padak.
In conclusion, the Indian Police Service is a powerful and noble career. It offers respect, responsibility, and real opportunities to protect and serve the nation. From leadership to law enforcement, the IPS journey is both tough and rewarding.
Start your UPSC preparation today! Enrol in PW UPSC Online Courses and take the first step towards becoming an IPS officer.
Indian Police Service FAQs
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