In Pakistan, an 18-grade officer primarily refers to a District Collector (DC), a prominent field appointment within the Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS) that carries significant responsibilities at the district level.
Understanding Grade 18 Officers in Pakistan's Civil Service
The civil service structure in Pakistan operates on the Basic Pay Scale (BPS) system, which categorizes government employees into various grades, from BPS-1 to BPS-22. Each grade signifies a different level of responsibility, authority, and compensation. Officers typically begin their careers at BPS-17 and progress to higher grades based on merit, experience, and performance.
A BPS-18 officer holds a crucial mid-career position, often involving direct executive authority and extensive public interaction. These officers are vital for the implementation of government policies and the day-to-day administration across various departments.
The Role of a Grade 18 Officer: The District Collector (DC)
A key example of an 18-grade officer, especially for those in the esteemed Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS), is the District Collector (DC). This position is a multifaceted field appointment that combines several critical functions:
| Grade | Field Appointment | Key Roles |
|---|---|---|
| BPS-17 | Assistant Commissioner (AC) | Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Assistant Collector (Land Revenue) |
| BPS-18 | District Collector (DC) | District Magistrate (DM), Collector (Land Revenue) |
The District Collector's role is central to district governance and encompasses both executive and quasi-judicial powers:
- District Magistrate (DM): In this capacity, the DC is the chief law and order authority in the district. Their responsibilities include:
- Maintaining peace and public order.
- Overseeing the criminal justice administration.
- Supervising the police force to ensure effective law enforcement.
- Issuing executive orders and ensuring their compliance.
- Collector (Land Revenue): As the Collector, the officer serves as the principal revenue officer of the district. This role involves:
- Assessment and collection of land revenue and other government taxes.
- Management and maintenance of land records.
- Resolution of land-related disputes.
- Implementation of land reforms and development projects.
Career Trajectory and Significance
Officers typically begin their career in the PAS at BPS-17, often serving as Assistant Commissioners (ACs) who manage sub-divisions and perform roles like Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and Assistant Collector (Land Revenue). Promotion to BPS-18 signifies an officer's readiness for more demanding and independent charges, such as leading an entire district as a DC.
The responsibilities vested in a Grade 18 officer, particularly the District Collector, are critical for the effective functioning of public administration. They act as the primary interface between the government and the citizens, ensuring the smooth delivery of services, resolution of local issues, and overall governance at the grassroots level.
