It may be underlined that each service, including IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, IA&AS, IRAS etc, has its own “Civil List” that contains vital information in respect of officers' batch, cadre, domicile, present posting, pay scale, qualification and date of birth as well as superannuation. 

If the said initiative fructifies the “Civil List” of all services will reflect the category of “quota” and “reservation” availed by the officers. Bringing the information in the public domain would create a deterrent against the possibility of misuse of quota. A section of senior bureaucrats says that decades back Civil Lists reflected the quota availed but later on it was stopped.   

Puja Khedkar controversy caused ripples across the country wherein she misused the provisions of OBC non-creamy layer quota in the UPSC civil services examination. Post Khedkar expose media outlets including social media platforms reported about numerous names doubting possible misuse of quotas. Govt swung into action and Khedkar was terminated from IAS. 

Khedkar’s case coupled with the unfortunate NTA meltdown drew the attention of all and sundry forcing the Union Government to tread cautiously and come up with corrective measures. UPSC roped in UIDAI to tighten loose ends and check the credentials of applicants while the DoPT is seeking suggestions from ministries on its initiative on the “Civil List”. 

If the proposed move becomes a reality it would invite criticism on many counts. It may not go down well with a politically motivated section but aspirants/beneficiaries earning their fortunes with a determination may cherish the move. The revised “Civil List” mentioning the quota availed would also reflect their resolve, conviction and success despite their adversities. There are many shinning officers who became the member of the civil service availing “quota”.

For example, specially-abled officers like Ira Singhal (IAS: 2015: AGMUT), Pranjal Patil (IAS: 2017: KL) and Suhas LY (IAS: 2007: UP) are seen as role model who inspire the nation with their resolve. Many deserving aspirants do not require to avail quota yet others avail “quota” as their constitutional and rightful dues.