The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced 45 lateral entry vacancies for Joint Secretary, Director, and Deputy Secretary positions across various central ministries. This initiative aims to bring specialized skills to improve government efficacy, but has ignited controversy over the lack of reservations for SC, ST, and OBC candidates. Originating under the Congress-led UPA government and endorsed by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission, lateral entry is now being implemented by the Modi government to infuse fresh talent into the bureaucracy. Critics, including Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, argue it undermines reservation policies, while BJP defends it as a transparent recruitment method. The UPSC has outlined the required qualifications and experience for these roles, emphasizing that current central government employees are not eligible to apply. Applications are open until September 17, targeting professionals from the private sector, academia, and public sector undertakings.