Lateral Entry into Government: A Recurring Theme in Administrative Reforms. (June 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Singh, Sujata
• Is Part Of: Indian journal of public administration. Volume 69:Number 2(2023)
• Page Start: 432
• Page End: 439
• Publication Date: 2023-06
• Subjects: Lateral entry -- revolving door -- domain specialisation -- attracting outside-talent and inter-service mobility; Public administration -- Periodicals; India -- Politics and government -- Periodicals; 351.54005
• DOI: 10.1177/00195561221141513
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0019-5561

Abstract

The question of inducting fresh talent into government has been a subject of perennial debate. Several Committees and Commissions in post-Independence India have addressed this issue and suggested steps to attract talent from outside the government. The question of providing lateral entry and inter-service mobility is closely intertwined with whether there is a need to specialise, and, if so, at what stage in a civil servant's career. An analysis of various Commission Reports provides useful insights into this issue. The article examines the suggestions made by various Commissions and their ramifications for Indian Administration. It explores the implications of lateral entry into the civil services and its impact on the administration.