How to Get a Government Job in India

Many new graduates seek out government jobs as first steps in their long-term careers. To get a government job in India, you must study and pass rigorous exams based on your desired area of work to be considered for these competitive and highly sought-after roles. These exams can be challenging, and the number of candidates grows yearly. But if you pass one or more, you are typically well on your way to gaining the government job of your dreams.

Read more about how to gain a government job as a civilian, as well as how to gain a government job with no experience.

What makes a government job different from a private sector job?

Government jobs differ from private-sector jobs because the federal government provides them, and they typically involve working within public services. Businesses outside of the federal government provide private-sector jobs, which include industries such as retail or hospitality. 

To gain a government job, you must pass a rigorous national-level exam based on the industry you’d like to work within. You typically must apply with a resume and pass an interview to gain a private sector job.

Benefits of a government job

Government jobs are highly sought after due to their benefits. Some of the advantages of having a federal job include:

• Job security

• Pensions after retirement

• Medical benefits

• Housing allowance

• Fixed and higher-than-average salaries

• Travel incentives

Many people are attracted to government jobs because of the benefits, salary, and reputation that they offer, which all contribute to a positive work-life balance.

How to get a government job as a civilian

To gain a government job as a civilian, you must meet the qualifications for the desired role. For many of these roles, you must be an Indian citizen, fall within the required age limit, and carry the necessary educational requirements. Sometimes exceptions apply, such as for citizens living in neighbouring countries. Each role has its metrics and qualifications, so you’ll want to research the industries you’re interested in and see how your experience matches up.

You’ll also have to pass the national exam corresponding to your potential role. For example, many civil service roles require the Civil Services Exam (CSE) from the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

How to get a government job with no experience

You'll want to research fresher openings for a government job without experience. These entry-level roles are designed for newly graduated professionals looking to enter a specific industry. Some government jobs also offer internships to gain experience. These roles are key to gaining the knowledge and skills to move into more senior positions eventually.

Steps to gaining a government job

After exploring the types of roles you're interested in and deciding on a position to pursue, find out the job requirements to ascertain the experience, education, and skills you might need to gain. You'll also need to study for and pass the federal exam required for the position.

1. Find a role you would enjoy.

The first step to getting a government job is finding a role that aligns with your interests and talents. Knowing why you want the role is important since many of these jobs require a service-oriented mindset and values. Find a role you’re excited about rather than one you’re qualified for but don’t feel passionate about. Some examples include roles in banking, the railway systems, teaching, and defence.

2. Compare your experience and education.

Next, you’ll want to examine the experience and education requirements needed to gain the role you’re looking for. Make sure you carry the right degrees, background, and other qualifications before applying to ensure you have the best possible chance of being chosen for the job. Ensure you meet the age requirements of the particular job as well.

3. Develop necessary or missing skills.

If you notice you’re missing skills that the role you’re interested in requires, it’s important to take the time to learn them to have the best chance of passing your exams. Developing leadershipand communication skills are all helpful for success.

4. Pass the exam.

Each industry has a specific exam you must pass to gain a job. One of the most popular of these exams is the UPSC exam, which is offered annually and qualifies you for civil service jobs such as the Indian Foreign Service or the Indian Police Service. Once you’ve identified the exam you need to take, research the syllabus and sign up for study sessions to have the best possible chance of passing. Usually, you'll need to pass the required exam before the government will invite you for an interview.

5. Apply for your desired job.

Once you’ve chosen your desired role and find yourself qualified, optimise your resume with relevant education, experience, skills, and exam scores and apply for the job. Be meticulous and make sure you fill out every part of the application thoroughly, accurately, and thoughtfully. Errors increase your chances of your application being rejected. If the hiring body accepts your application, you can take the required exam.

Examples of government jobs

You can pursue various government roles in India and work for the central government or state governments. Positions range from fresher to officer levels in many sectors, including IT, banking, agriculture, medicine, armed services, forestry, and more. Let's take a look at four examples of government jobs in India.

IAS officer

Average monthly Indian salary: ₹56,100 [1]

Requirements: A bachelor's degree and the UPSC Civil Services Exam

IAS officers are responsible for overseeing their jurisdiction and implementing government policies. You’d respond to any disasters or issues by coordinating relief activities. You might have specific roles assigned to you based on the needs and structure of your jurisdiction. 

Federal security officer

Average monthly Indian salary: ₹32,000 [2]

Requirements: A university degree or certification and IBPS Specialist Officers Exam

Federal security officers provide security services at federal buildings and events. They respond to specific safety threats and situations and establish safety protocols for people in attendance. 

Indian forest services

Average monthly Indian salary: ₹56,100 [3]

Requirements: The UPSC Indian Forest Service exam and two years of training at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy as well as training at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA)

Indian forest services officers are responsible for conserving, preserving, and researching India’s native forests. You manage the national parks, tiger reserves, and protected areas as an officer. You also collect data and research that helps to sustain the forests’ ecosystems and encourage growth. 

Specialist officer

Average monthly Indian salary: ₹35,000 [4]

Requirements: A university degree and the IBPS Specialist Officers Exam

As a specialist officer, you’ll work within the banking industry across various professional roles. Some of these roles include an IT specialist officer responsible for servicing and maintaining computers or a lawyer specialist officer responsible for creating banking legal policies.

Getting started with Coursera

Sharpen your foundational skills and prepare for your desired government job exam with courses from the top Indian universities on Coursera. With options like an MA in Public Policy from O.P. Jindal Global University, you’ll have the chance to learn the different skills needed to succeed in a government job.