New Delhi (24.10.2024): As per informed sources, the process of empanelment of 1994 batch of IAS officers, for holding Secretary-level posts in Govt of India, has not kickstarted as yet. Reportedly, the very first step of empanelment has not yet been initiated which means the batch will have to wait till early next year. Sources said that not more than 28 officers from the batch would be in the reckoning. In addition, the upcoming empanelment list may have over 8-9 names as review cases from 1992 & 1993 batch. 

As per convention, the batch is considered ‘freezed’ when the docket of eligible officers is moved to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) seeking vigilance clearance. Ever since the NaMo administration came to power for the first time in 2014, two batches (IAS) a year were taken up for empanelment but in 2024 only 1993 batch was empanelled afresh i.e. February 2024.   

Reportedly, the New Delhi establishment may have two reasons for the delay in taking up 1994 batch; first there is shortage of ‘inventory’ (availability of Secretary-level posts) and second placement of senior batches as Secretary at Centre are yet to saturate.