The question detail interestingly mentions “Will you apply what you preach?”
Quoting myself from an answer that I have written previously
Your first option should be based on your aptitude and your aim.
( Link here: Should I give IAAS as first preference in UPSC given the less hectic and apolitical nature of the job? )
I have compared IRS and IAAS in these two answers, if my memory serves me right.
- Which is better service in UPSC IRS or IA&AS?
- Which post will be the best for an aspirant clearing Civil Services at the age of 28, IRS or IAAS?
All the criterion that I have mentioned in my answers will weigh in my mind while taking a decision. But ultimately it will all be applied based on what I feel suits my aptitude and my long term goals ( both career and personal)
As of now, I have not yet decided whether I will leave IAAS for IRS (IT). There is a lot of time for me to take a considered decision. There are a lot of personal factors also that I have to factor in while taking a decision. I am married and my wife is more educated and qualified than I am, and hence her career goals, postings etc. should align with mine when I’m making a decision. As I have mentioned in one of my answers, IRS has a slight advantage compared to IAAS if postings and transfers are considered. ( Say I wanted to be posted in my district, IRS would be able to give me that, while IAAS won’t)
My age is 28 and I should also consider promotions while making a decision. This is something IAAS offers in a time bound manner.
My son’s education and his future also has to be factored in. Therefore all I can offer to the overcurious mind now is this. I have not yet decided as to what should be done. But you can be rest assured that my decision will be what I think is best for my career and personal development and not to satisfy the curiosity or perceived importance someone attributes to me on social media.
I answer questions on Quora to help people who are clueless on how they can proceed with their civil service preparation. I have not preached to anyone to follow my advice to the end of the world. It is upto you to make a considered decision based on all the information that you can gather. After all, if you are not even able to make such a judgment, you should perhaps reconsider your decision to appear for UPSC CSE.