Indian Railways faces talent challenges under new IRMS regime
RAILWAYS & METRO RAIL

Indian Railways faces talent challenges under new IRMS regime

The Indian Railways is facing difficulties in recruiting sufficient technical manpower under the Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS), a scheme approved by the government in 2019. Although efforts have been made to integrate multiple railway services into IRMS, the influx of fresh officers under this regime remains low, as the first batch of recruits is still in training.

Dipak K Dash, the Indian Railways had requested the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit 150 personnel for IRMS in 2022. However, only 130 candidates were selected, and of those, approximately 40 reported for training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. The rest opted for extraordinary leave (EOL), a common practice allowing candidates to prepare for other exams without receiving a salary. Those who reported are now in the final phase of training at a railway institute in Lucknow.

The 2023 recruitment round also saw a weak response. Despite requesting 150 personnel again, only 84 candidates were selected, further worsening the manpower shortage in various railway zones.

To mitigate this shortage, the Railways have begun re-engaging retired junior officers as consultants on an "exigency basis" until December 2026. A letter from the Railway Board emphasized that these consultants would assist in addressing challenges caused by vacant posts and ensure uninterrupted operations and services. Their responsibilities will include inspections, supervision, and drawing, and they will be discharged once new recruits from UPSC or other departmental selections join.

There have also been reports of some IRMS recruits voicing concerns to the Railway Board, particularly due to rumours that the national transporter may consider splitting the services back into technical and non-technical branches. This uncertainty, along with the recruitment challenges, has added to the staffing difficulties within the Indian Railways.

The Indian Railways is facing difficulties in recruiting sufficient technical manpower under the Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS), a scheme approved by the government in 2019. Although efforts have been made to integrate multiple railway services into IRMS, the influx of fresh officers under this regime remains low, as the first batch of recruits is still in training. Dipak K Dash, the Indian Railways had requested the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit 150 personnel for IRMS in 2022. However, only 130 candidates were selected, and of those, approximately 40 reported for training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. The rest opted for extraordinary leave (EOL), a common practice allowing candidates to prepare for other exams without receiving a salary. Those who reported are now in the final phase of training at a railway institute in Lucknow. The 2023 recruitment round also saw a weak response. Despite requesting 150 personnel again, only 84 candidates were selected, further worsening the manpower shortage in various railway zones. To mitigate this shortage, the Railways have begun re-engaging retired junior officers as consultants on an exigency basis until December 2026. A letter from the Railway Board emphasized that these consultants would assist in addressing challenges caused by vacant posts and ensure uninterrupted operations and services. Their responsibilities will include inspections, supervision, and drawing, and they will be discharged once new recruits from UPSC or other departmental selections join. There have also been reports of some IRMS recruits voicing concerns to the Railway Board, particularly due to rumours that the national transporter may consider splitting the services back into technical and non-technical branches. This uncertainty, along with the recruitment challenges, has added to the staffing difficulties within the Indian Railways.

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Greaves Electric Mobility Files for IPO

Electric-vehicle manufacturer Greaves Electric Mobility has announced plans to raise Rs 10 billion through an initial public offering (IPO), as stated in its draft papers filed. The company, recognised for its 'Ampere' brand of electric scooters, also produces three-wheelers under a separate brand. Greaves Electric’s major shareholders, Greaves Cotton—a publicly listed entity—and investment firm Abdul Latif Jameel Green Mobility Solutions, will collectively sell approximately 189.4 million shares through the IPO. This move positions Greaves Electric alongside larger competitor Ather En..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

IREDA Approves Rs 30 Billion for Odisha's Renewable Energy Projects

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) has approved funding exceeding Rs 30 billion for renewable energy projects in Odisha as the state strives to achieve its goal of 10 GW capacity by 2030. Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman and Managing Director of IREDA, shared this update during the Odisha Solar Investor Conclave organised by GRIDCO. He emphasised that accessible financing is crucial to fostering the adoption of renewable energy. Das outlined IREDA's significant contributions to funding renewable energy projects in Odisha, spanning sectors such as solar, hydro, ethanol, and renewable..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Oil Prices Rise Amid Light Pre-Christmas Trading

Oil prices edged higher during light trading ahead of the Christmas Day holiday. The increase was attributed to positive US economic data and growing oil demand in India, the third-largest importer of oil globally. Brent crude futures rose by 33 cents, or 0.45 per cent, to reach $72.95 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 29 cents, or 0.42 per cent, settling at $69.53 per barrel as of 0114 GMT. Economic indicators in the United States highlighted a surge in new orders for key manufactured capital goods in November, driven by robust demand for machinery. Add..

Hi There!

"Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Join the CW WhatsApp channel for the latest news, industry events, expert insights, and project updates from the construction and infrastructure industry.

Click the link below to join"

+91 81086 03000