Concerned over IPS officials’ lack of attendance in mandated training courses critical to their advancement, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has sent a memorandum to all states and Union Territories warning against such neglect. Attendance has been particularly low in Mid-Career Training Programmes (MCTPs) and Induction Training Courses (ITCs), which are required for advancement.

According to recent reports, the MHA is considering stronger steps if this trend continues. The MHA, as the authoritative authority managing the cadre of IPS officials, has noted that around 785 eligible IPS officers have not yet completed their mandatory MCTP-III, a situation that contradicts the Gol Rules and guidelines. Similarly, 529 and 292 qualified IPS officers, respectively, have failed to finish their mandated MCTP-IV and MCTP-V training.

The MHA has warned state governments about the potential consequences of officers skipping these training seminars in a serious communication. The letter from the MHA emphasizes the importance of following Rule 3 (2) (iv) of the IPS (Pay) Rules and Rule 5 (4) of the IPS (Probation) Rules, 1954, which state that IPS personnel must successfully complete prescribed training programs (MCTPs/ITCs) within specified service duration.

Failure to comply may result in these officers being barred from advancing to higher grades or getting raises. The letter adds that officers in their ninth, sixteenth, and twenty-sixth years of service may experience delays in promotions or increments if they do not attend the required phases of MCTPs/ITCs.

According to reports, the year-long training cycle has been disrupted due to continually poor attendance. Some courses have even received single-digit applications, demonstrating the seriousness of the problem. Surprisingly, even Prime Ministerial and Home Ministry instructions have failed to significantly increase attendance rates.