Indian Information Service (IIS): Eligibility, Training, Salary, Roles & Career

The Indian Information Service (IIS) is a Group ‘A’ central civil service, which functions under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Established as an organized service in 1960, it was initially known as the Central Information Service (CIS).

The CIS was renamed as Indian Information Service in 1987 and was divided into Group ‘A’ and Group ‘B’ services. It plays a key role in managing government communication and public information. IIS officers act as a bridge between the government, media, and citizens. They help shape India’s public image, both nationally and internationally.

What is Indian Information Service?

IIS Full Form is Indian Information Service. It is a Central Civil Service under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. Officers of this service handle government communication, media relations, and information dissemination.

The Indian Information Service was created on March 1, 1960, initially known as the Central Information Service (CIS), to ensure transparent, accurate, and timely communication between the government and the public. IIS officers work with print media, television, radio, digital platforms, and social media. They help explain government policies in simple language so that citizens can understand them.

An IIS officer may work in departments like Press Information Bureau (PIB), Doordarshan, All India Radio, Films Division, and other media units. They also represent India in international forums and embassies. In today’s digital age, IIS officers play a crucial role in managing online communication and countering misinformation.

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How to Become an Indian Information Service Officer?

Becoming an Indian Information Service officer requires dedication and a clear strategy. IIS officers are recruited through the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). 

IIS Officer Selection Process

The Indian Information Service selects candidates via the UPSC Civil Services Examination. This exam has three stages: 

1. Preliminary (objective/qualifying)
2. Mains (written papers/merit-based)
3. Personality Test (interview).

Candidates who qualify all stages and secure a suitable rank are allocated IIS based on merit, preferences, and vacancies. The President of India makes appointments after selection.

Indian Information Service Eligibility

Candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including age, educational qualifications, and nationality. These requirements are prescribed by the UPSC for participation in the exam.

Nationality

Applicants should be nationals of India, Nepal, or Bhutan, or belong to eligible categories such as Tibetan refugees or persons of Indian origin who have migrated from designated countries with the intention of permanently settling in India.

Indian Information Service Age Limit

The Indian Information Service Age Limit is:

• Minimum age: 21 years
• Maximum age: 32 years

Age relaxations apply:

• OBC: 3 years
• SC/ST: 5 years
• PwBD: As per government rules.

Candidates must carefully check age eligibility before applying for UPSC.

Indian Information Service Qualification

The Indian Information Service Qualification requires a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university. The degree can be in any discipline. However, students from journalism, mass communication, political science, or humanities often find the syllabus relatable.

Indian Information Service Officer Training

After selection, Indian Information Service (IIS) Group ‘A’ officers undergo an intensive induction training programme of approximately 20.5 months. The training follows a sandwich pattern, combining classroom learning with extensive field exposure to prepare officers for professional government communication roles.

Phase I: Classroom and Field Training (≈ 9.5 months)

• Three-trimester programme
• Classroom sessions, simulations, and field attachments
• All India Study Tour (Bharat Darshan)
• Introduction to foreign language learning

On-the-Job Training (OJT) (≈ 10 months)

• Practical training in ministries and media units
• Field posting including regional/district exposure
• Hands-on experience in:
  • Press relations and content creation
  • Communication campaigns and feedback mechanisms
  • Digital and social media management
  • Crisis and emergency communication

Phase II: Review and Assessment (≈ 2 weeks)

• Presentations on OJT experiences and projects
• Final evaluation and consolidation of learning

Upon successful completion, posting orders are issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

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IIS Officers Roles and Responsibilities

The roles of an IIS officer are diverse and dynamic. Their main responsibility is to manage government communication effectively. In times of crisis, IIS officers play a critical role in preventing misinformation and ensuring accurate information reaches the public.

Here are some of the key roles played by Indian Information Service officers:

• Serve as official spokespersons for ministries and departments. Prepare and issue press releases, media briefs, background notes, and official statements
• Coordinate with print, electronic, and digital media to ensure accurate dissemination of government information
• Design and implement Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns for government schemes
• Monitor media coverage and public opinion, and provide strategic communication advice to the government
• Manage news and broadcasting operations in public service broadcasters such as Doordarshan and All India Radio
• Contribute to publicity and awareness campaigns through the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC)
• Play a role in implementing and overseeing media-related laws such as the Cable Television Networks Act, 1994, and the Cinematograph Act, 1952
• Serve on deputation assignments in central ministries, state governments, and autonomous bodies; select officers may also handle international communication assignments

Salary and Pay Grade of IIS Officers

The salary of an IIS officer is attractive and stable. It follows the 7th Pay Commission structure. At the entry level, an IIS officer is appointed as Junior Grade officer with Pay Level 10. Along with this, officers receive Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, and Travel Allowance. Here is IIS Officer salary structure:

In addition to salary, IIS officers enjoy official accommodation, government vehicles (depending on post), medical facilities, and pension benefits. The job offers both financial security and social respect.

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Career Growth of Indian Information Service Officers

Career growth in the Indian Information Service is steady and rewarding. Promotions are based on experience, performance, and departmental examinations.

An IIS officer can rise from Junior Grade to Senior Time Scale, Junior Administrative Grade, and then to Senior Administrative Grade. At higher levels, officers may become Director, Principal Director, or Director General of media organisations.

Senior IIS officers advise ministers and senior bureaucrats on communication strategies. Some officers are appointed to international organisations or foreign missions.

With the rise of digital governance, the scope of IIS is expanding. Officers with skills in digital media, data analysis, and public relations have more opportunities for impactful roles.

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