Dilli Ka Babu: Unsure future

The dismantling of the Planning Commission has come as a blow to the 500-strong Indian Economic Service (IES) officers, many of whom work in the plan panel. Sources say that at least 100 IES officers will now have to be accommodated in other ministries. But the IES officers fear that the decision harkens back to the times when babus of this cadre had to struggle long and hard for promotions. What further exacerbates their worries is that there is no chief economic advisor to protect their interests. The last chief economic advisor was Raghuram Rajan but after he became governor of the Reserve Bank of India, the government hasn’t been able to find a suitable economist as replacement. Since the chief economic advisor is also the head of the IES cadre, this absence is being felt even more now when the IES babus are feeling vulnerable and unsure of their future.

Clipped wings

Senior babus, used to frequent trips abroad on government business, have had their wings clipped. A note from Cabinet secretary Ajit Seth sent to all secretary-rank officials states that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes them to go abroad only if absolutely necessary. Rather they should depute junior colleagues for such trips while they continue to man the “fort” in their respective ministries or departments. Reportedly, Mr Seth has issued a separate circular aimed to cut down on foreign junkets. Mr Seth has also asked state governments to get Central clearances for their CM or minister who are planning travelling abroad. Sources say that the exercise is meant to cut costs since foreign travel by junior officials is cheaper. Be this being Modi sarkar, the contents of this “firman” will be adhered to. Any grumbling will be strictly private!