IAS officer’s car depends on many aspects. The rank, the state they are located in, their area.
Most IAS officers that are posted in rural parts of India get an Ambassador as the vehicle for transportation. Though the Ambassador is now out of production if an Ambassador is available the IAS officer will receive that.
A District Magistrate and highly posted IAS officers get luxury cars like a Toyota Fortuner or Innova too.
The government appoints cars to officers based on their rank. The same ranked officer may get a different car in another state.
About the Perk
The perk of an IAS officer’s car is only limited to their job. They cannot use these cars for personal use. If they wish to use it for their personal use, they need to apply for permission and even pay a minimal fee.
Ever since light beacons were banned on vehicles of VIPs or any dignitary, IAS officers generally get a flag on the hood of the car along with stickers. This will help them to differentiate between different government officers.
If an officer has to change his/her location, he or she is generally appointed a driver and if the officer is of a high post, a convoy will also be sent with them. The bigger the career path of an IAS officer, more the perks they receive by the government.
Reasons for Perks
The work done by an IAS officer is not easy, they are well paid and given perks as an incentive for their hard work to ensure the better working of the government.
These perks cannot be misused by any officer, and the government can take action if any misuse occurs.
They cannot be fired easily and have a stable job but gross misconduct can allow for removal of an officer.
These perks should not be a driving force for anyone to take up this job. This is a very sacred job that requires a lot of dedication and sacrifices. Make sure you have the spirit within you to become an IAS officer.
Career Path
The career path of an IAS officer is highly dependent on the time they spend in the job. Meaning that the longer they spend time in the job more the promotion they receive but the work you do too will influence decisions.
Just because you have been an IAS officer for 30 years, does not ensure that you will become cabinet secretary. Your service has to be top-notch along with positive changes.
Officers start from the district level, move to the state level and finally move into central government. Many officers can be given the role of managing industry and they can make positive impacts on the life of many people.