The Ladder of Civil Service

In Bhutan, if we have Bachelor’s Degree, we can reach the highest rank in the civil service that is EX-1 (Executive-1) or ES-1 (Specialist-1). If we join politics and we are very much capable, we can be either Prime Minister or the Cabinet Ministers. 

The entry level in civil service after graduation is at the S-1 (Supervisory) or P5 (Professional) levels. Those who get through the civil service examinations enter at the P5 level and others at the S-1 level. It takes 5 years to get first promotion including one year probation period  and after that every 4 years we are being promoted to next level until P-1. But sometimes, some people are also promoted on meritorious basis and through open competition for the vacant posts without even having to wait for 4 years. 

By the time we reach P-1 level, we will be in late 40s if no fast tract promotions are considered. Some, who are fortunate enough to get fast tract promotion (either through meritorious/open competition), they reach P-1 at the earliest possible. After P-1, to go to next level, i.e. either EX-3 or ES- 3, we have to face open competition for the vacant post. By the time we are in EX level, we will be old enough to be resigned soon. 

For those joining politics, it is different. If their party wins, they even have the chances to become ministers depending on one's capabilities. But to join politics, if we are civil servants, we have to first resign. Again if we want to join civil servants after participating in politics, we have to wait for 3 years cooling period.

Out of many, only few are selected through civil service examinations. Once selected, civil servants are bound by civil service rules and regulations. After resignation/superannuation, civil servants are paid retirement benefits depending on their terms of service. I am now at P-5, I wonder when will I be at EX-level or will I ever be there?