Shimla: The Sukhu government in Himachal Pradesh has initiated a major administrative reform exercise aimed at rationalising the cadre strength of All India Services, including IAS, IPS and IFS officers, in a bid to reduce unnecessary expenditure and divert more funds towards public welfare.
Although previous governments had considered similar measures, no concrete action was taken. This time, however, the state government has moved forward with a detailed proposal and practical steps toward restructuring the administrative framework.
According to sources, the state government has sent a proposal to the Centre seeking a reduction in the sanctioned strength of IAS officers. At present, the approved IAS cadre strength in Himachal Pradesh stands at 153, which the government has proposed to reduce to 147.
Similarly, a detailed proposal to reduce the sanctioned strength of Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers from 114 to 83 has already been submitted to the Central Government and is reportedly in the final stage of consideration.
The state government is also planning to review the IPS cadre strength in the coming months to make it more rational and need-based. Officials believe that better utilisation of existing resources and more effective deployment of officers can ensure smoother governance without burdening the state exchequer.
The government argues that maintaining excess posts is not only administratively impractical but also places an unnecessary financial burden on the state. Funds that should ideally be spent on public welfare are instead being consumed by administrative salaries and related expenses.
On average, the state spends nearly ₹45 lakh to ₹50 lakh annually on a single IAS or IFS officer. Officials estimate that the proposed reduction in cadre strength could save the government several crores of rupees every year, which can then be redirected toward welfare schemes and development projects.
Sources said the proposal was prepared after an extensive study of administrative, financial and functional aspects. The government has presented detailed justification before the Centre, expressing hope that the move will be approved as a necessary and practical governance reform.
The initiative is being viewed as a significant step toward efficient governance and fiscal discipline in Himachal Pradesh.
