The Air Intelligence wing of Customs in Goa has successfully apprehended several gold smugglers. In one instance, they seized 9.440 kg of gold worth ₹2.65 crore, which was being smuggled by a woman through the airport. The officials, acting on suspicion, searched her baggage and uncovered the smuggled gold. In a similar case, another individual was caught attempting to smuggle 7.705 kg of gold, valued at around ₹2.15 crore.
What is the Job all about?
The Customs and Central Excise Departments are part of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Directorate of Anti-Evasion, and Directorate of Training, among others. The Customs Department is one of the two main tax-collecting entities of the government, with functions divided into two broad areas: controlling imported and exported goods for duty and statistics, and preventing the entry of prohibited or restricted items, especially smuggled drugs. Customs officers are responsible for ensuring that smuggling does not occur.
Can I go for it?
Customs and Central Excise departments have two main roles:
1. Prevention: Ensuring compliance by checking incoming/outgoing people, ships, and cargo.
2. Appraisal: Detecting concealed goods, monitoring trade, and overseeing the movement and marketing of goods.
These roles operate under the rank of Assistant Commissioner.
Career Prospects
Promotions in this field are based on seniority, as is typical in government departments. The job offers security and a clear path for career advancement.
Where do I start?
After Graduation:
To become a Customs Officer, you must take the Civil Services Examination, which provides entry into 27 different services, including the Indian Customs & Central Excise Services.
Basic Qualifications:
• A Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 55%.
• Indian citizenship.
• Must be at least 19 years old.
Other requirements include possessing a vehicle license, the ability to work flexible schedules, passing an extensive background check, and completing all required training.
Selection:
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Exam:
Candidates need to be well-versed in current affairs, English, general knowledge, and basic mathematics, as the exam covers these subjects, followed by an interview.
Preventive Officers/Inspectors:
Candidates for these positions are selected through an examination conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). The minimum qualification is graduation, along with specific physical requirements (height of 157.5 cm and chest measurement of 81 cm). The selection process includes a physical endurance test and an interview.
For further information check : http://entrance-exam.net/customs-officer-how-to-become-a-customs-officer/
Through UPSC:
Officers of Customs and Central Excise Services are appointed through the UPSC examination. Those who narrowly miss the examination may be appointed as appraisers. State-level positions in Customs and Excise are filled through the State Public Service Commission Allied Services Examination.
Direct Recruitment:
Direct recruitment is available for positions such as Constables, Customs Preventive Officers, and Central Excise Inspectors. The SSC conducts this recruitment annually, typically in April.
Eligibility:
• Age: 18 to 25 years
• Must be a graduate
• Written Test: Covers general knowledge, English, arithmetic, and general awareness.
Salaries:
UPSC officers earn between ₹15,600 and ₹25,800 per month, plus TA/DA and other benefits.
Source: http://entrance-exam.net/
SPECIAL NOTE
While pursuing a career as a Customs Officer, it is wise to have a backup plan. Numerous job opportunities are available for graduates, and online learning platforms like Alison, Coursera, EdX, Khan Academy, Udemy, FutureLearn, and OLL offer various courses. While some courses are free, opting for paid programs can provide a certificate, adding value to your CV.
Don’t settle for just a degree or diploma — enhance your CV by completing online learning programs with certification in areas relevant to your chosen career. This will significantly improve your employment prospects compared to holding only a basic qualification. Additionally, consider boosting your confidence by enrolling in public speaking courses, such as those offered by Toastmasters International.
For government job opportunities, please check: www.employment-newspaper.com
page updated: August 2024