Prior permission of the central government is mandatory for ex-India study leaves for Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers by the state government concerned so that the study leave may be considered in the light of the availability of a sufficient number of IAS officers in the cadre and for central deputation against the prescribed norms of central deputation reserve.

Reportedly, the Centre wants a holistic appreciation of the impact of long study leaves on the overall cadre management both at the state as well as the central government.

The state governments should submit the details of IAS officers who have returned from such leaves during the last two years and the posting(s) given to them according to the practical knowledge and experience acquired during study leave.