Lateral Entry in Government: No Reservation Applicable

The Rajya Sabha was informed that reservations do not apply to appointments made through lateral entry in government departments. This recruitment method involves hiring specialists, often from the private sector, for specific roles. Since 2018, 63 appointments have been made, with no category data maintained due to a Supreme Court judgment.

On Thursday, it was disclosed in the Rajya Sabha that reservation policies are not applicable to appointments made via the lateral entry mode in government departments. The lateral entry process involves hiring specialists, including professionals from the private sector, to fill crucial roles within the government.

According to Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh, since 2018, a total of 63 appointments have been made at the levels of Joint Secretary, Director, and Deputy Secretary through this recruitment method. These appointments are made on a contract or deputation basis across various departments and are aimed at leveraging the specialized knowledge and expertise of selected individuals.

Singh explained that due to a Supreme Court judgment, reservations are not applicable for single post cadres. Consequently, data on the category-wise composition of these appointments has not been maintained. Recently, UPSC was compelled to cancel an advertisement for similar posts following a political dispute about the absence of reservations in lateral entry appointments.

(With inputs from agencies.)