APS Officers play a very, very important role in maintaining the law, preventing crime, and protecting the citizens of the state. The uniform of being an APS Officer makes you a defender of justice, and it places you on a position of action-packed and decision-making roles. If your ambition is to protect the innocent and uphold justice at the grassroots level, this is your calling. In this article, we will discuss how to become an APS officer in Assam as well as the salary, other benefits, and career growth.
What is the full form of APS?
The full form of APS is Assam Police Service. It is a key component of the Department of Home Affairs, where officers are selected through APSC CCE and serve in the Assam Police. APS officers typically serve in positions such as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and later progress to higher ranks, with opportunities for promotion to the Indian Police Service (IPS). Their duties range from challenging, field-based careers that involve investigation, intelligence gathering, disaster management, and public interaction to counterinsurgency and community policing.
As the champion of law enforcement at the grassroots level, APS officers play an important role in upholding justice, managing local conflicts, and fostering trust between the public and the state machinery.
What are the eligibility criteria to become an APS officer?
If you’re wondering how to become an APS officer, you must meet certain eligibility criteria set by the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC). These include:
| Criteria | Details |
| Educational Qualification | Graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university |
| Age Limit | – General: 21 to 38 years- OBC/MOBC: Up to 41 years- SC/ST (P & H): Up to 43 years- PwD: As per government norms |
| Physical Standards | Height:- Male (Gen/OBC/MOBC/SC): 165 cm- Female (Gen/OBC/MOBC/SC): 150 cm- Male (ST): 160 cm- Female (ST): 147.5 cm Chest (Male only):- Normal: 84 cm- Expanded: 89 cm (Minimum 5 cm expansion) |
| Nationality | – Must be an Indian citizen- Must be a permanent resident of Assam- Must know Assamese or another official language of Assam |
The Selection Process and Exam Details for Assam Police Service
The Assam Police Service (APS) selection process is conducted by the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) through the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE). If you’re wondering how to become an APS officer, you must undergo the three rigorous stages.
1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims)
The first phase of the APSC Combined Competitive Examination is the Assam Police Service (APS) Preliminary Examination. It consists of two objective-style papers, General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (Aptitude Test), each worth 200 marks. The two-hour test has a total score of 400. Candidates must pass this qualifying exam in order to be considered for the Mains Examination, even though their scores will not be used to determine the final merit list.
| Paper | Syllabus Overview |
| General Studies Paper I | Current events of national & international importanceHistory of India and Indian National MovementIndian and World GeographyIndian Polity and GovernanceEconomic and Social DevelopmentEnvironmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate ChangeGeneral ScienceAssam-Specific |
| General Studies Paper II (Aptitude Test) | ComprehensionInterpersonal skills, including communicationLogical reasoning and analytical abilityDecision-making and problem-solvingGeneral mental abilityBasic numeracy (Class X level)Data interpretation (Class X level) |
Note: Paper II is qualifying in nature. You must score a minimum of 33% to qualify.
2. Main Examination (Mains)
The second step in the Assam Police Service recruitment process is the APSC Mains Examination, which consists of six descriptive papers. These consist of four General Studies (GS) papers, one essay paper, and one paper on a topic unique to Assam. There isn’t an optional subject, like in previous formats. Each paper carries 250 marks and is allotted 3 hours for completion. The total marks for the APSC Mains Examination are 1500.
| Paper | Paper |
| Essay | Essay on a contemporary topic testing clarity, coherence, and analytical skills. |
| General Studies I | Indian History, Indian National Movement, Indian Society, Role of Women, Geography of India and the World |
| General Studies II | Indian Polity, Governance, Constitution, Social Justice, International Relations |
| General Studies III | Indian Economy, Agriculture, Environment, Science & Technology, Disaster Management |
| General Studies IV (Ethics) | Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude, Emotional Intelligence, Public Service values, and Accountability |
| General Studies IV (Assam Specific) | History, Culture, Heritage, Economy, Geography, Polity, and Administration of Assam |
3. Interview/Personality Test
The purpose of the 180-mark interview or personality test is to evaluate the candidate’s character, leadership abilities, and general fit for a position in the Assam Police Service. This phase assesses mental acuity, integrity, communication skills, and decision-making ability all critical components of a successful police officer.
Final Selection
The final merit list is created using the sum of the scores from the interview and the Mains exam. If you’re wondering, how to become an APS officer, it’s important to note that candidates who successfully clear all stages of the selection process are appointed as Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSP) in the Assam Police Service.
Training and Probation Period of APS Police Officers.
After qualifying for the APSC CCE, another phase on your journey in understanding how to become an APS officer and the guardian of the Constitution is your training period. The probation period for the Assam Police Service (APS) officers is to be conducted at the North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA). It is located at Umsaw, Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya.
About The Training at North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA)
Founded in 1978, NEPA is an eminent institution under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. For police officers from all eight northeastern states, including Assam, it acts as the primary training facility.
There, the newly recruited Deputy Superintendents of Police (DySPs) and Sub-Inspectors undergo a one-year Basic Course. This training program includes both indoor and outdoor training modules.
Recent Training Highlights
70 Deputy Superintendents of Police, 62 from Assam and 8 from Mizoram, graduated from NEPA’s 54th Basic Course in March 2025. Beginning on April 2, 2024, the course covered advanced subjects like
- National security and immediate response strategies
- Addressing trust deficits in policing
- Crimes against women and vulnerable groups
- Legal procedures related to civil suits and writ petitions
- Investigation of cross-border crimes and new criminal laws
Assam’s incumbent Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attended the passing-out parade, commending the officers for their dedication and the academy for its exemplary training standards.
Assam Police Salary List and Job Profile
Basic Pay Scale
Knowing the salary and benefits of the position is another aspect of understanding how to become an APS officer. The salary structure of the APS officers follows the 7th Pay Commission guidelines. The salary starts from Rs.30,000 to Rs.110,000, and grade pay is Rs.13,000. The salary pattern varies based on the specific service and position and also as includes various allowances and benefits
Assam Police Service (APS) Pay Structure (2025)
| Component | Details |
| Pay Scale | ₹30,000–₹110,000 per month |
| Grade Pay | ₹12,700 |
| Pay Band | PB-4 |
| In-Hand Salary | Approx. ₹61,000–₹70,000 per month (after deductions) |
Allowances and Benefits
A number of additional perks are available to APS officers, which raises their total pay:
| Allowance | Details |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | Approximately 53% of the basic pay |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | Up to 40% of (Basic Pay + DA) |
| Medical Allowance | ₹5,000 per month |
| Travel Allowance (TA) | Provided as per government norms |
| Special Duty Allowance (SDA) | 30% of basic pay for postings in the Northeast region (applicable to All India Services officers) |
Deductions
Standard deductions from the gross salary include
| Deduction | Amount (₹) |
| National Pension Scheme (NPS) | 6,322 |
| Group Insurance Scheme (GIS) | 400 |
| Professional Tax | 208 |
| Total Deductions | Approx. 6,930 |
Career Progression in Assam Police Service (APS): From DSP to DGP
| Level | Designation | Nature of Post |
| 1. | Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) | Entry-Level (via APSC CCE) |
| 2. | Additional Superintendent of Police (Addl. SP) | Mid-Level Supervisory |
| 3. | Superintendent of Police (SP) | District Head |
| 4. | Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police | Range/Zonal Supervisory Officer |
| 5. | Inspector General (IG) of Police | Zonal/Departmental Head |
| 6. | Additional Director General (ADG) of Police | State-Level Top Officer |
| 7. | Director General of Police (DGP) | Head of Assam Police |
Approximate Timeframe for Promotion in APS
| Promotion Stage | Average Years of Service Required |
| DSP → Addl. SP | 5–6 years |
| Addl. SP → SP | 4–5 years |
| SP → DIG | 5–6 years |
| DIG → IG | 4–5 years |
| IG → ADG | 4–5 years |
| ADG → DGP | Based on seniority & vacancy |
Job Profile of APS Officer
For those exploring how to become an APS officer and who dislike monotonous desk jobs, APS officers are on the frontlines of maintaining law and order, preventing crimes, and helping during natural disasters or civil unrest. Your work has a direct and visible impact on society, offering a deep sense of purpose and service.
Maintaining Law & Order
As a frontline officer, you have to lead law enforcement in assigned areas and manage large gatherings, protests, curfews, and law & order crises.
Crime Investigation & Prevention
Being in uniform, the APS officers symbolize law, order, and justice and head the investigation of serious crimes such as murder, cybercrime, and narcotics-related offenses. You will be accountable for the functioning of police stations under your jurisdiction, ensuring timely, lawful, and effective action. Additionally, you will also need to coordinate closely with the CID, forensic teams, and intelligence units to support investigations and maintain law and order.
Public Interface & Community Policing
As a custodian of law enforcement in the state, you have to build strong rapport with local authorities to promote efficient grassroots policing. You need to head the public awareness campaigns about important topics like cybercrime, women’s safety, and drug abuse. Additionally, to promote trust and collaboration between the public and the police, you need to work to resolve local disputes through community engagement, dialogue, and outreach initiatives.
Coordination with Civil Administration
During crucial events like elections, VIP transfers, and emergency or disaster management, you will work closely with deputy commissioners and magistrates as an Assam Police Service officer. As a key player in district-level law enforcement planning, you will guarantee efficient and well-coordinated action to uphold public safety and order.
Special Task Assignments
As an APS officer, you may be assigned to specialized or elite units like Narcotics Control, Commando Battalion, Special Task Force (STF), or the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Additionally, you might work in specialized units like Traffic Intelligence, Cyber Crime Unit, or Women’s Cell. To increase your exposure to high-level investigations and interagency operations, you may be placed on deputation with national agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), National Investigation Agency (NIA), or Intelligence Bureau (IB).
Nomination Process: Assam Police Service (APS) to Indian Police Service (IPS)
You might be wondering not just how to become an APS officer but whether an APS officer can be promoted to Central Cadre. If so, the following paragraphs have your answer. Yes, promoting to the Indian Police Service (IPS) from the Assam Police Service is a significant career progression. The process is governed by some fair and transparent rules, eligibility criteria, and a multi-stage evaluation system such as departmental exams and seniority.
Eligibility Criteria of promotion to IPS from an APS
To be nominated for the IPS promotion, an APS officer must:
- Be a citizen of India
- Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution.
- Maintain a spotless service record
- fulfill requirements for physical fitness (height, chest, vision, and general health)
Service Requirements of promotion of an APS Officer
- To be eligible for the promotion, officers must serve in the APS for at least eight to ten years.
- A minimum of five years of service is necessary for deputation to intelligence organizations such as RAW or IB.
- At least 18 years of total IPS service (after promotion) is required for higher central positions like Inspector General (IG).
- For deputation to intelligence agencies like IB or RAW, at least 5 years of service is required
- For higher central positions such as Inspector General (IG), at least 18 years of total service in IPS (after promotion) is mandatory.
Performance Evaluation of an APS Officer
Your performance on your duty has a significant impact on future postings and career advancement within the Assam Police Service. Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) are used to evaluate officers’ integrity, leadership abilities, and service discipline. By September 30 of the evaluation year, you must formally submit any appeals or objections you may have about your performance records for review.
Required Departmental Clearances
You need to get a number of required clearances before you can be officially approved for promotions, deputations, or sensitive postings in the Assam Police Service. These consist of a security clearance in accordance with central government regulations, a vigilance clearance, an integrity certificate, and verification that there are no outstanding disciplinary actions. Only officers with a spotless and reliable service record are given consideration for more responsibility thanks to these checks.
Medical Examination
To be considered as ready for duty, you must pass a rigorous medical fitness test as a nominee for the Assam Police Service. This includes evaluations of weight, height, and chest in addition to tests for hearing, vision, and general physical and mental well-being. Additionally, your compliance and vaccination history are checked. If no health-related red flags are found, officers who have recently received international medical clearance might not need to retest.
Step-by-Step Nomination Process of an APS to an IPS Officer
- Document Submission: A completed nomination form, two to four recommendation letters on official letterhead, an updated resume, a list of awards or publications (if any), and a brief citation (no more than 300 characters) must all be uploaded by officers in a properly named PDF format.
- Review and Selection: Successful nominees are formally notified and published following the departmental committee’s initial screening, the Central Honors Committee’s review, and the Council Steering Committee’s final approval.
- Final Induction: The Indian Police Service formally inducts chosen officers, assigns them to a batch year and seniority, and makes them eligible for postings at the national level and more responsibility.
This promotion marks a milestone in an officer’s career, bringing wider authority, broader responsibilities, and enhanced service opportunities.
From Constable to IPS: The Long Road of Dedication and Service in Assam Police
1. Promotion from Constable to DSP in Assam Police
Depending on seniority, performance, departmental exams, and open positions, a constable may advance through the following hierarchy:
| Rank | Promotion/Entry Details |
| Constable | Entry-level position |
| Head Constable/Havildar | Promotion from Constable |
| Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) | Promotion from Head Constable/Havildar |
| Inspector | Promotion from Sub-Inspector |
| Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) | Exceptional promotion based on service record, Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs), and vacancy availability |
Depending on the officer’s record and state government regulations, promotion from SI to DSP typically takes 20 to 25+ years.
2. From DSP to IPS
As you explore how to become an APS officer, it’s equally important to understand the long-term career path You can apply to join the Indian Police Service (IPS) under the State Police Service Promotion Quota after being promoted to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).
Serving as a DSP (or equivalent rank) for at least 8 years, maintaining a spotless service record with stellar Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs), and passing all necessary medical exams and screenings are prerequisites for eligibility.
You must also fulfill the age restriction requirements, which are typically under 54 at the time of induction in accordance with central deputation regulations. Lastly, you need to be approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the UPSC after being nominated by the state government.
.
Important Notes:
- When learning how to become an APS officer, it’s important to know that because of the lengthy and competitive ladder, very few officers with backgrounds as constables advance to the IPS. Such promotions do occur, though. In India, there are actual instances of constables becoming IPS officers following decades of devoted service. The State Police Service promotion quota (typically from DSP rank) or direct recruitment (UPSC Civil Services) accounts for the majority of IPS officers.
Final Thought
We are at the end, and we hope everything is crystal clear in your head now about how to become an APS Officer Serving the people of Assam and advancing the state’s development are two benefits of becoming an APS officer. Success necessitates thorough planning, knowledge of regional concerns, and a strong dedication to public service. Aspiring candidates can fulfill their dream of joining the Assam Public Service with the correct preparation, perseverance, and planning.
Although the path to learning how to become an APS officer may be challenging, it is worth it because of the fulfillment that comes from working in civil administration and improving society. To succeed in this competitive exam, you must begin your preparation early, maintain focus on your objectives, and keep in mind that perseverance and diligence are essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full form of APS?
The full form of APS is Assam Police Service. It is a key component of the Department of Home Affairs, where officers are selected through APSC CCE and serve in the Assam Police.
Where do APS officers receive their training?
The training and probation period for the Assam Police Service (APS) officers is to be conducted at the North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA). It is located at Umsaw, Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya.
What is the salary of an APS officer?
The salary structure of the APS officers follows the 7th Pay Commission guidelines. The salary starts from Rs.30,000 to Rs.110,000, and grade pay is Rs.13,000. The salary pattern varies based on the specific service and position and also as includes various allowances and benefits
Can an APS officer be promoted to IPS?
Yes, you can apply to join the Indian Police Service (IPS) under the State Police Service Promotion Quota after being promoted to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).
Is it possible to go from constable to IPS in Assam Police?
Yes, promoting to the Indian Police Service (IPS) from the Assam Police Service is a significant career progression. The process is governed by some fair and transparent rules, eligibility criteria, and a multi-stage evaluation system such as departmental exams and seniority.