In a move that underscores growing concern over administrative continuity, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has raised the issue of IAS officers avoiding return after deputation. The CM revealed that he has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking intervention in the matter, which he says is affecting the efficiency and stability of governance in the northeastern state.
Speaking to media persons, CM Saha expressed dismay over the increasing number of Indian Administrative Service officers who do not return to their parent cadre after completing their deputation at the Centre. “This trend is worrying. It creates serious administrative gaps and burdens the officers working within the state,” Saha said.
The CM noted that the state has invested time and resources in training and grooming these officers. However, the failure of some to return post-deputation not only affects project implementation but also leaves key departments without experienced leadership.
IAS Officers Avoiding Return After Deputation: A Recurring Challenge
Administrative vacancies have compounded the problems for the Tripura government, which is already grappling with development needs in education, healthcare, and rural infrastructure. With a limited officer pool, the CM emphasized the urgent need for policy mechanisms that ensure IAS officers return to their parent cadre in a timely manner.
According to the CM, he has personally communicated his concerns to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), as well as to PM Modi. While no specific names were mentioned, the underlying implication was clear: Tripura needs its officers back.
Strengthening Local Governance IAS Deputation
The issue of IAS officers avoiding return after deputation touches on larger questions of bureaucratic accountability. In small states like Tripura, the absence of even a few senior officers can significantly impact administrative performance. The state has already taken several steps to digitize governance.
Earlier this year, Tripura launched AI-based governance tools aimed at boosting transparency and reducing dependency on manual supervision. However, human oversight remains crucial, especially in rural and backward districts.
Centre’s Support Needed for Fair Deployment
In his letter to the Prime Minister, CM Saha reportedly emphasized the importance of equitable officer deployment across states. “We understand the prestige and exposure of central deputation. But that should not come at the cost of the state’s development,” he added. He urged the central government to consider policy reforms that could incentivize or mandate the return of officers after their deputation ends.
DoPT guidelines currently allow officers to seek an extension of central deputation beyond the standard five-year period, subject to approval. Critics argue that this flexibility is often misused, leaving home states short of experienced officers.
Internal Links to Ongoing Reforms
The state has made several efforts to strengthen its institutional base. For instance, Tripura recently announced three new government degree colleges to improve higher education access. However, the success of such initiatives depends on robust administrative support, something currently lacking in several departments.
A Call for Balanced Bureaucracy
Tripura’s demand is not isolated. Several smaller states have previously flagged similar issues about the reluctance of IAS officers to return after central postings. As the CM highlighted, “It is time for a balanced bureaucracy that respects both central and state-level responsibilities.”
As the state awaits a response from the Prime Minister’s Office, civil society and political analysts are watching closely. The outcome may shape future deputation policies and their impact on governance across India.
