**Lateral Entry Appointments in Government: No Reservation Policy**
The Rajya Sabha has clarified that reservation does not apply to appointments made through the lateral entry mode, which involves hiring specialists, including those from the private sector, for government roles. Union Minister of State for Personnel, Jitendra Singh, provided this information in a written response on Thursday.
Since 2018, a total of 63 appointments have been made at the levels of Joint Secretary, Director, and Deputy Secretary on a contract or deputation basis across various government departments through three cycles of lateral entry in 2018, 2021, and 2023. These appointments are specifically tailored for assignments that require specialized knowledge and expertise.
Singh emphasized that each appointment corresponds to a single post cadre, which is why the reservation policy does not apply, referencing a Supreme Court ruling in the case of ‘PGIMER, Chandigarh Vs. Faculty Association and Ors’. Consequently, the government has not maintained category-wise data for these appointed officers. Currently, 43 officers are serving in various ministries and departments.
This statement comes in response to inquiries regarding the recruitment of officers in the central government through lateral entry over the past five years, including questions about the adherence to a reservation pattern. The issue gained attention following a political controversy over the absence of a reservation provision, leading the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to cancel its advertisement for key government posts through lateral entry in August of the previous year.
In summary, the lateral entry recruitment process aims to bring in specialized talent without the constraints of reservation policies, reflecting a strategic approach to enhance government efficiency and expertise.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is the lateral entry mode in government appointments?**
A: Lateral entry refers to the recruitment of specialists from various sectors, including private industry, into government positions, aimed at leveraging their expertise for specific assignments.
