Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has raised concerns over IAS officers reluctant to return to the state after completing their central deputation, revealing that he has formally written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the matter.
CM Saha’s Concerns
Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Civil Service Officers’ Institute in Kunjaban, Saha emphasized the need for a comfortable working environment to encourage officers to remain in Tripura.
“I hope officers will not request deputation outside the state after the inauguration of this institute, where necessary facilities will be available,” he stated.
Saha acknowledged that while officers are entitled to postings outside the state, their reluctance to return creates administrative challenges. He further alleged that some officers engage in lobbying to extend their stay outside Tripura.
Tripura’s Bureaucratic Landscape
Tripura currently has 59 IAS, 42 IPS, and 40 IFS officers, along with 470 Tripura Civil Service (TCS) officers and 152 Tripura Police Service (TPS) officers. The state government has increased its budget from ₹27,000 crore in FY24-25 to ₹32,000 crore in FY25-26, aiming for holistic development.
Future Measures
Saha expressed optimism that the Civil Service Officers’ Institute will help address bureaucratic concerns, ensuring that officers feel valued and motivated to serve in Tripura.
As discussions continue, the state government is expected to engage with the Centre to find solutions that balance officer preferences with Tripura’s administrative needs.