Indian Civil Accounts Service: ICAS Full Form, Eligibility, Salary, Job Profile & Career Growth

Know about Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) eligibility, ICAS full form, officer salary, career growth, job profile, and how to become an ICAS officer via UPSC. Including training and pay scale details.

Indian Civil Accounts Service
THEIASHUB

The Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) is a Group ‘A’ Central Civil Service under the Ministry of Finance. Established in 1976, ICAS plays a vital role in managing the accounting and financial reporting functions of the Government of India. Officers of ICAS are responsible for maintaining transparency and fiscal discipline across various ministries through the Indian Civil Accounts Organisation (ICAO).

This article provides comprehensive insights into the ICAS full form, roles and responsibilities, ICAS officer salary, eligibility, recruitment process, training, and career progression.

What is the Indian Civil Accounts Service?

The Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) is tasked with overseeing government accounting, internal audits, expenditure control, and treasury operations. It was carved out to separate auditing from accounting functions to strengthen financial management within the Indian government structure.

  • ICAS Full Form: Indian Civil Accounts Service
  • Cadre Type: Group ‘A’ Central Service
  • Governing Ministry: Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure)
  • Controlling Authority: Controller General of Accounts (CGA)

ICAS Full Form

ICAS stands for Indian Civil Accounts Service, a premier Group ‘A’ service responsible for handling the accounting and financial management system of the Government of India. It operates under the Ministry of Finance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public financial operations.

Indian Civil Accounts Service History

The Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) was established in 1976 to streamline and strengthen the government’s accounting and financial management system, following the separation of accounting and auditing functions in India.

Indian Civil Accounts Service Roles and Responsibilities

ICAS officers hold critical financial management roles across ministries and government departments. Their main responsibilities include

Key Role Description
Government Accounts Management Designing systems, formats, and procedures for managing Union and State government accounts.
Accounting Rules & Manuals Formulating and optimizing manuals and rules as per the Government Accounting Rules, 1990.
Financial Statements Preparing monthly and annual accounts and monitoring revenue and expenditure.
Cash Reconciliation Reconciling government cash balances with the RBI.
Audit & Compliance Conducting internal audits and monitoring financial discipline.
HR Development Coordinating training and human resource initiatives within ICAO.
  • As of now, ICAS consists of nearly 9,000 employees, including 226 officers.

Eligibility for Indian Civil Accounts Service

Candidates must appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, where ICAS is one of the service preferences.

Criteria Details
Nationality Indian citizen
Age Limit 21 to 32 years (general category)
Education Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
Attempts 6 (General), 9 (OBC), Unlimited (SC/ST)

How to Become an Indian Civil Accounts Service Officer

Here is the detail to become an Indian Civil Accounts Service Officer

  1. Clear UPSC Civil Services Exam: Includes Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test.
  2. Indicate ICAS in the preference list. Choose ICAS in UPSC’s service preference order.
  3. Get Allocated Based on Rank and Vacancy: Rank and preference determine service allocation.

Indian Civil Accounts Service Training Process

ICAS officers undergo a three-phase structured training:

Training Phase Institution Duration
Phase I National Institute of Financial Management (NIFM), Faridabad 6 months + foreign study tour
Phase II Institute of Government Accounts and Finance (INGAF) As per the schedule
Phase III On-the-job training in Pay & Accounts Offices (87 PAN India) Practical field training

Indian Civil Accounts Service Salary Structure (7th Pay Commission)

Here, salary details are mentioned: 

 

Grade Basic Pay Level Salary Range (₹)
Assistant Controller of Accounts Level 10 ₹56,100
Deputy/Asst. Controller General of Accounts Level 11 ₹67,700 – ₹78,800
Deputy Controller General / Controller Level 13 ₹1,18,500 – ₹1,44,200
Chief Controller of Accounts Level 14 ₹1,82,200
Principal Chief Controller of Accounts Level 15 ₹2,05,400
Additional Controller General of Accounts Level 16 ₹2,25,000
Controller General of Accounts (CGA) Apex Scale ₹2,50,000

Additional Benefits:

  • Dearness Allowance (DA)
  • House Rent Allowance (HRA)
  • Travel Allowance (TA)
  • Medical Facilities
  • Government Accommodation
  • Pension & Retirement Benefits

Career Progression in Indian Civil Accounts Service

ICAS officers enjoy a structured hierarchy and career growth:

  • Assistant Controller of Accounts
  • Deputy Controller/Asst. CGA
  • Controller of Accounts
  • Chief Controller of Accounts
  • Principal Chief Controller of Accounts
  • Additional Controller General of Accounts
  • Controller General of Accounts (CGA)

Indian Civil Accounts Service Officers May Work In

  • Ministries and Departments
  • Autonomous Bodies
  • Embassies (as financial advisors)

Why Choose Indian Civil Accounts Service?

Choosing Indian Civil Accounts Service over others:

  • Strong financial domain exposure
  • Policy-level influence in government accounting
  • Nation-building through fiscal transparency
  • Balanced career with limited field postings
  • Lucrative perks and steady progression

Conclusion

The Indian Civil Accounts Service offers a fulfilling and impactful career for graduates strong in finance and administration. If you’re interested in ensuring financial compliance, transparency, and public governance, ICAS is a prestigious path with robust training, promising remuneration, and esteemed positions like the Controller General of Accounts. Begin your journey by preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, listing ICAS in your service preferences, and steadily climbing through the ranks.

Indian Civil Accounts Service FAQs

Loader image

Appear for the UPSC Civil Services Exam and opt for ICAS in preferences.

Starting from ₹56,100 to ₹250,000 per month, depending on rank.

3-phase training at NIFM, INGAF, and field offices.

Yes, senior ICAS officers may be posted as financial advisors in embassies.


UPSC QEP 2026 Batch 5 - English
UPSC QEP 2026 Batch 5 - English
Buy now View Details

Submit Your Details to Learn More



NEEV GS + CSAT Foundation 2026/27
NEEV GS + CSAT Foundation 2026/27
Buy now View Details



Join theIAShub’s Mains Answer Writing Program

Refine your answer writing skills and elevate your UPSC preparation with personalized support and expert feedback.

Fill out the form to get started with the program or any other enquiries !

Let's Connect with Counselor

Best IAS Coaching In Delhi, UPSC Online & Offline Classes by IAShub

Are you dreaming of becoming an IAS officer? Then, IAShub can be your best guide. It is one of the Best IAS Coaching in Delhi. Many students who want to clear the UPSC exam join IAShub for learning. The institute gives both online and offline classes. Their teachers are experienced and helpful. They easily explain every topic. Students also get notes, tests, and tips to do well in the exam.

UPSC Online Classes by IAShub

IAShub is in Delhi and is trusted by many UPSC students. It offers coaching for every part of the UPSC exam – Prelims, Mains, and Interview. The classes are simple and easy to understand. The teachers are experts and guide students in the right way. IAShub is also known for its helpful notes, test series, and answer-writing practice. IAShub is the best coaching in Delhi and also gives UPSC Online Classes. This helps students from any place in India to learn. The online classes are live and also recorded. So, students can watch them anytime. These classes cover the full UPSC syllabus.

Key Offerings Provided by IAShub

Here are some important services provided by IAShub:

  • UPSC Prelims: IAShub teaches for Prelims with a focus on basics. It also gives daily current affairs and monthly magazines.
  • Classroom Courses: IAShub has classroom learning for students in Delhi. The environment is good and peaceful for study.
  • Live Classes: Students who live far can join live UPSC online classes. These classes are just like real classes.
  • QEP for Mains: The Quality Enrichment Program (QEP) is special for Mains preparation. It helps students write better and faster.
  • Answer Writing: Regular answer writing practice is given. Teachers also check answers and give tips to improve.
  • Free Resource: IAShub gives free notes by toppers and helpful Main Booster material.
  • Test Series: Test series are available for every subject. These help students know their weak points and improve.
  • Interview Guidance Session: IAShub also gives interview practice sessions with experts. These help students feel confident.

UPSC Exam Overview

The UPSC Civil Services Exam has three parts:

  • Prelims: It has two papers: General Studies and CSAT.
  • Mains: It has nine papers, including essays and optional subjects.
  • Interview: It tests the personality and confidence of the student.

This exam is tough, but with the right guidance, it becomes easy to manage. Students must study smart and stay regular.

How IAShub Helps in the UPSC Journey

IAShub supports students from the beginning to the end. It gives the right books, tests, and notes. The classes are easy to follow, and the teachers are always ready to help. Students get personal doubt sessions too. The test series and answer checking help students learn where they need to do better. Also, free study materials save time and money.
IAShub also guides students during the final stage – the interview. Experts take mock interviews and give useful tips. This full support makes IAShub one of the best IAS coaching in Delhi.

Best IAS Coaching In Delhi FAQs

Yes, IAShub offers live and recorded online classes. Students can attend from any part of India.

Classes are available in both English and Hindi, so students can choose the language they are comfortable with.

The classroom centre is located in Delhi. Students can visit and join offline batches there.

IAShub gives interview guidance sessions to help students prepare for the final round of UPSC.
Footer Image