IES vs IAS: Major Comparison

Two major exams conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) for departments IES (Indian Engineering Services) and IAS (Indian Administrative services) are favourite of today’s government job aspirants. Many students think both departments are the same and possess the exact job profile under the Union Government. But there is a twist for all dear readers. A very thin line that discriminates both is modus operandi. IES administrators manage technical operations under the Central Government, whereas IAS officers tend to maintain law and order, legislative functions, and others. We can understand you’re still confused about the understanding difference. Therefore we brought this guide for you.

What is meant by IES?

IES is a special civil services department that comes under the Central Government. It looks after the managerial and technical works of the Indian Government. The Union Govt appoints officers and assistants to manage state-run projects and assist them technically. IES needs to clear a tough level of competition that UPSC conducts. Lakhs of candidates appear for the examination to get good posts in this department. However, a handful of them achieve their dream successfully.

These technical staff are picked up by The Government Of India given by the UPSC.  Very tough and complex IES Exam Pattern includes five tests known as ESE (Engineering Services Examination) that are important for candidates’ selection.

Who is known as IAS?

IAS officers come under the Central Government who hold a diplomatic and fundamental position in the public sector. District Collectors and Secretaries of Union Cabinet departments are few job profiles under this category. Their job is to framework public policies, advise ministers on various issues, maintain law and order in a state, collecting revenues, and supervise public interest projects.

IAS officers are also appointed in international organizations like WTO (World Trade Organization), International Court of Justice, SAARC, World Bank, and several other autonomous organizations. They are liable to work in any part of the globe under State or Central Government. With so many perks and incentives, candidates more apply for IAS job positions.

Comparison: IAS vs. IES

IAS

IES

1. All IAS officers are part of regulatory departments that come under the Central Government. 1. IES officers handle technical functions and engineering-related works in Government-run projects.
2. IAS officers hold positions in different departments like IFS, IRS, and IPS. Passed out candidates get options to serve in various administrative departments. 2. After clearing an IES exam, candidates can work in telecom, engineering, road, railways, or infrastructure-related services.
3. The minimum qualification to appear for in the IAS exam is to hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a UGC-recognized university. 3. The minimum requirement to sit for an IES exam is an engineering degree from a UGC recognized university. Only engineering candidates can apply for it.
4. Candidates get a chance to apply six times for an IAS exam. 4. There are no limits for candidates to apply for the IES exam.
5. Candidates have the freedom to choose any subject according to their preferences in Civil Services Exam. 5. IES Syllabus is focused on engineering-related subjects such as Mechanical, telecommunications, Civil and other branches.
6. Application fees are 100 INR 6. Application fees in 200 INR
7. Number of seats is nearly 1000 7. Number of seats in IES is approx. 500

Final words

After knowing about job functions and features of both IES and IAS, candidates must put their best efforts to clear the exam. Job profiles under both categories are prestigious and hold more honour in society compared to private jobs. So figure out your interests and start preparing for UPSC from today onwards! Hope you have found this post interesting, do share with your colleagues as much as possible.