How to Become an IPS Officer: A Comprehensive Guide to Cracking the Civil Services Exam

The path to becoming an IPS (Indian Police Service) officer is a rigorous and multi-staged process that starts with the Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE). Aspiring candidates need to successfully navigate through several stages including the Prelims, Mains, and an Interview.

UPSC CSE Examination: Stepping Stone to IPS

To embark on this journey, candidates must clear the UPSC CSE, which is the gateway to the IPS and other elite services like IAS, IFS, and IRS. It’s a comprehensive examination designed to assess candidates' competence across diverse areas.

Training at LBSNAA and SVPNPA

Upon successfully clearing the UPSC exam, aspiring IPS officers commence their initial training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. This phase begins with a 3-month foundation course that covers fundamental aspects relevant to the services.

After the foundational course, IPS officers proceed to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad for further rigorous training. This comprehensive training program spans over a duration of 11 months and involves a holistic curriculum addressing physical and mental well-being.

The Intensity of Training

Trainee IPS officers at SVPNPA undergo an intense program that includes mandatory physical training like PT, gym sessions, sports, athletics, swimming, horse riding, and yoga. Cultural programs are also a mandatory part of their training, reflecting a holistic approach.

Specialized Field Training and Salary

Post the initial 11-month training at SVPNPA, IPS officer trainees undergo a specialized 6-month program focused on field training in their allocated cadre district. After completing all training phases, totaling 2 years and 2 months, trainees are deployed to various districts to assume their roles as IPS officers.

Throughout their training period, officers receive a monthly stipend of Rs 35,000. Successful completion of the extensive training prepares IPS officers for the multifaceted challenges they will face in maintaining law and order.