Srinagar, March 22, 2025 – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has revealed that 24 vacancies within the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service have been identified for induction into the prestigious Indian Administrative Service , marking a significant step toward strengthening administrative capacity in the Union Territory. The announcement, made earlier today, underscores the government’s commitment to rewarding merit and addressing the shortage of IAS officers in J&K.
The induction process, facilitated by the General Administration Department in coordination with the Union Public Service Commission , aims to elevate seasoned JKAS officers into the IAS cadre under the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) framework. “This move will not only recognise the dedication of our JKAS officers but also enhance governance efficiency,” the Chief Minister stated during a press address in Srinagar.
Sources indicate that the 24 vacancies span multiple years, with the 1999 JKAS batch expected to be a primary beneficiary, alongside officers from subsequent batches. The process, which had been stalled for over a decade due to seniority disputes and legal hurdles, has gained momentum under the current administration. The UPSC is anticipated to finalise the inductions within months, following consultations with the J&K government and the Ministry of Home Affairs .
This development follows the successful induction of 18 JKAS officers into IAS in 2023, leaving a backlog of vacancies now being addressed. The initiative is seen as a boon for J&K, where only 55 of the 75 sanctioned IAS posts are currently filled. “Bridging this gap is crucial for effective administration and policy implementation,” noted a senior GAD official.
The Chief Minister emphasised that regularising such inductions would ensure timely promotions for JKAS officers, aligning J&K with other states and Union Territories. The move has been welcomed by administrative circles, with officers expressing optimism about career progression and the chance to serve in higher capacities.