Introduction to the Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS)
The Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS) is one of the prestigious Group ‘A’ civil services in India. It plays a crucial role in managing the financial and accounting functions of the Indian Railways, one of the largest rail networks in the world. Established in 1929, IRAS officers are responsible for ensuring the efficient utilization of resources, financial planning, budgeting, and maintaining the financial integrity of the railways.
Roles and Responsibilities of (IRAS)
IRAS officers hold key positions in the Indian Railways, managing a wide array of financial and accounting functions. Their primary responsibilities include:
Financial Planning and Budgeting: IRAS officers are responsible for preparing the budget for Indian Railways. They ensure that funds are allocated efficiently across various departments and projects, keeping in mind the financial health of the organization.
Accounts Management: They oversee the maintenance of accounts, ensuring that all financial transactions are recorded accurately. This includes monitoring receipts, payments, and expenditures across the railway network.
Audit and Compliance: IRAS officers ensure that all financial activities comply with government regulations and standards. They conduct regular audits to identify any discrepancies and take corrective measures.
Cost Control and Analysis: They analyze the cost-effectiveness of various railway projects and operations. This involves assessing financial risks, evaluating alternative solutions, and recommending measures to control costs.
Revenue Management: Managing the revenue streams of Indian Railways is a critical function of IRAS officers. They are involved in pricing decisions, revenue collection, and the financial aspects of passenger and freight services.
Investment and Resource Allocation: IRAS officers are involved in the evaluation of investment proposals and the allocation of resources to various railway projects. They ensure that investments are made wisely to yield the best returns.
Pension and Fund Management: They also manage the pension funds and other retirement benefits of railway employees, ensuring that these are disbursed timely and accurately.
Career Path and Growth Opportunities of (IRAS)
The career of an IRAS officer is both challenging and rewarding. After being recruited through the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), officers undergo rigorous training at the National Academy of Indian Railways (NAIR) in Vadodara.
Training and Probation:
- Foundation Course: Like all civil servants, IRAS officers begin with a foundation course that familiarizes them with the functioning of the Indian government and the civil services.
- Professional Training: After the foundation course, they undergo specialized training in accounting, finance, and railway operations at NAIR and other financial institutions.
Career Progression:
- Junior Time Scale: Upon completion of training, IRAS officers are appointed as Assistant Financial Advisors and Chief Accounts Officers (AFA&CAO) in various railway zones and divisions.
- Senior Time Scale: With experience, they are promoted to the Senior Time Scale, taking up roles such as Divisional Financial Advisors (DFA).
- Junior Administrative Grade: In this grade, officers may serve as Deputy Chief Accounts Officers (Dy.CAO) or as Additional Divisional Railway Managers (Finance).
- Selection Grade: Further promotions lead to positions like Chief Accounts Officer (CAO), responsible for overseeing financial management in larger railway zones.
- Senior Administrative Grade and Above: At this level, officers can become Financial Advisors and Chief Accounts Officers (FA&CAO), General Managers, or even serve on the Railway Board, the apex body of the Indian Railways.
IRAS Application Fees
Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General and OBC | INR 100 |
| SC/ST/PwD and female candidates | No fee |
IRAS Eligibility Criteria
Criteria | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Must be a citizen of India |
| Age Limit | Must be between 21 to 32 years old on 1st August 2023 |
| Educational Qualification | Must have a degree from a recognized university |
| Physical Standards | Must meet the prescribed physical standards for admission to IRAS |
| Number of Attempts | Maximum of 6 attempts for general category candidates |
Please note that the age limit and number of attempts may vary for candidates belonging to reserved categories such as SC, ST, OBC, and PwD. Candidates are advised to check the UPSC notification for the detailed eligibility criteria and relaxations
IRAS Officials Salary Structure
A Group “A” civil service is the Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS). Their primary responsibilities include keeping track of Indian Railways’ finances and providing financial guidance to the executive on railway-related topics.
The salary structure for IRAS officials according to the 7th Pay Commission is as follows:
| Grade | Salary |
| Junior Time Scale | Rs. 15,600/- – Rs.39,100/- |
| Senior Time Scale | Rs. 15600/- – Rs.39,100/- |
| Junior Administrative Grade | Rs. 15,600/- – Rs.39,100/- |
| Selection Grade | Rs. 37,400/- – Rs.67,000/- |
| Senior Administrative Grade | Rs. 37,400/- – Rs.67,000/- |
| Higher Administrative Grade | Rs. 37,400/- – Rs.67,000/- |
| Higher Administrative Grade+ | Rs.75,500/- – Rs.80,000/- |