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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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. |
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) |
Here is the detail to become an Indian Civil Accounts Service Officer
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 |
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 |
ICAS officers enjoy a structured hierarchy and career growth:
Choosing Indian Civil Accounts Service over others:
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.
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.
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