Context

• The Union Public Service Commission has released an advertisement on August 17, 2024, inviting applications from “talented Indian nationals for lateral entry” for the posts of Joint Secretary, Director and Deputy Secretary in 24 ministries of the Central Government.

Concept of Lateral Entry

• Lateral entry aims to bring individuals with specific expertise and experience into government positions.
• It brings in new ideas, specialized knowledge and efficient decision-making ability in the bureaucracy.
• Tenure of job: Individuals selected through lateral entry are appointed on a contract of 3 years, which can be extended up to a maximum of 5 years.
• Eligibility: Individuals with domain expertise in the relevant fields from the private sector, state governments, autonomous bodies or public sector undertakings are eligible to apply for these posts.

Advantages of Lateral Entry:

• Expertise: Complex problems can be solved by bringing in people with expertise in specific areas.
• Efficiency: Appointing experienced professionals will speed up the decision-making process.
• Innovation: This promotes new ideas and creativity.
• Accountability: Appointing performance-oriented professionals increases accountability.

Controversy over lateral entry:

• Though the concept of lateral entry is positive, there are several arguments against it as well:
• Question mark on merit: It may question the merit of officers selected through the civil service examination.
• Disruption in organisational structure: It may disrupt the established hierarchical structure of bureaucracy.
• Threat of biasness: There is a risk of bias and political interference in the selection process.
• Impact on reservation: Questions may arise on the implementation of reservation policies.

Recommendations:

• Administrative Reforms Commission, 2005 (Chairman: Veerappa Moily) and 6th Pay Commission: Both recommended that sound policy formulation and implementation in specific areas requiring specialized expertise should be facilitated by an expert and motivated Indian citizen outside the bureaucracy.
• NITI Aayog, 2017: Central Government should recruit middle and senior management personnel.