IAS vs IFS, Who Has More Powers?

PWOnlyIAS May 30, 2024 06:09 2614 0

IAS vs IFS debate has been going on for many years regarding the powers of the two services. Let us check the details of both these services!

IAS vs IFS, Who Has More Powers?

IAS vs IFS is one of the most-sought out information in recent times. People are curious about the powers and functions of both IAS and IFS. Since both are prestigious services, their roles and monetary benefits are almost similar.

IAS and IFS both offer excellent opportunities to serve the country in various capacities. If you want to make an informed decision about choosing one, IAS vs IFS comparison is the best source to help you make a choice.

If you are planning to choose any one of these services, we advise you to go through this IAS vs. IFS article before arriving at a conclusion!

IAS vs IFS: Understanding the Basic Difference

Both IAS and IFS are the most popular services among aspirants. They have equal importance when it comes to their standing in society. However, IAS vs IFS will give you a comparison on various parameters.

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Aspect IAS IFS
Administrative Powers IAS officers are closely involved in policy formulation, implementation, and governance at different levels. They are mainly involved in foreign policy formulation.
Service Location Can serve majorly in states, UTs and Union government. Serve in MEA headquarters or overseas.
Administrative Control Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Ministry of External Affairs
Decision-making Powers Decision-making powers within the domestic sphere. Has powers to make decisions on international aspects as well.
Popular Positions District Magistrate Ambassador or High Commissioner
Highest Post Cabinet Secretary Foreign Secretary
Training Location LBSNAA Sushma Swaraj Foreign Service Institute

Also Read: IFS Officer

IAS vs IFS Salary

The salary structure of IAS vs IFS will give an idea about the monetary compensation received by the officers of the service.

Component IAS Basic Pay (₹) IFS Basic Pay (₹)
Junior Time Scale 56,100 56,100
Senior Time Scale 67,700 67,700
Junior Administrative Grade 78,800 78,800
Selection Grade 1,18,500 1,18,500
Super Time Scale 1,50,000 1,50,000
Senior Administrative Grade 1,75,000 1,75,000
HAG Scale 2,00,000 2,00,000
HAG+ Scale 2,05,400 2,05,400
Apex Scale 2,25,000 2,25,000
Cabinet Secretary Grade 2,50,000

Also Read: IAS Full Form

IAS vs IFS Benefits Comparison

Comparing IAS vs IFS will help you understand the perks and benefits enjoyed by the officers of the two services.

Aspect IAS IFS
Starting Salary ₹56,100 + other allowances ₹56,100 + other allowances
Foreign Allowance Not Applicable ₹1,20,000 – ₹2,50,000 (varies based on country)
Maximum Salary ₹2,50,000 + other allowances ₹2,25,000 + other allowances
Perks and Benefits Housing, Healthcare, Pension, Travel, etc. Housing, Healthcare, Education, Pension, Travel, Foreign Allowance, etc.
Dearness Allowance The officers are eligible for Dearness Allowance as per the government policy They also get Dearness Allowance
Medical Benefits Can claim monetary compensation for medical treatment They are eligible for medical compensation
Travel Allowance Can claim allowance for their official travel Provided travel allowances for their official tours
Pension Benefits Available after retirement Eligible for pension benefits
Housing Rent Allowance Use of official residence Can opt for official residence
Educational Benefits Children can get access to quality and subsidised education. Children of IFS officers are provided an opportunity to study in international schools.

Also Read: IFS Full Form

IAS vs IFS Promotion Structure

Both IAS and IFS have similar service grades. IAS vs IFS promotion structure will help you understand how the officers get promoted and also the service duration.

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IAS Grade IFS Grade Service Duration (years)
Junior Scale Junior Scale Officer 1-4
Senior Scale Senior Scale Officer 4-9
Junior Administrative Grade Officer Junior Administrative Grade Officer 9-12
Selection Grade Grade IV Officer 12-15
Super Time Scale Grade III Officer 15-20
Apex Scale Grade II Officer 30
Cabinet Secretary Grade Grade I Officer 37+

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IAS vs IFS FAQs

Both IAS and IFS are equally powerful in their own domain. IAS has administrative powers whereas IFS has diplomatic powers.

IAS officers are responsible for domestic policies and administration whereas IFS officers handle India’s foreign affairs.

The highest post among all civil servants in the cabinet Secretary to the Government of India.

No. Once a candidate joins IFS, he/she cannot switch to IAS.

IAS and IFS officers serving in India have similar salaries. The IFS officers serving abroad will receive foreign service allowances in addition to their salaries.
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