Services under the Union and States Definition, Types, Examples & Uses

Services under the Union and States

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Articles 308–323 govern recruitment and conditions of service for central and state services. While UPSC/SPSCs oversee appointments, each government frames rules for promotion, probation, and transfer. Protections ensure no employee is dismissed or demoted without due inquiry. The doctrine of pleasure (Article 310) means civil servants hold office at the President’s/Governor’s pleasure, tempered by Article 311’s safeguards against arbitrary dismissal. These provisions aim at a stable, merit-based bureaucracy that upholds neutrality. Yet, frequent transfers or political meddling erode morale. Balancing accountability with job security remains pivotal for an efficient, impartial civil service under India’s parliamentary-federal structure.