is an inter-ministerial[2] and inter-departmental central civil service under Group A[3] of the executive branch of the Government of India.

The unique aspect of the service is that the cadre posts are spread across various departments and ministries of central government numbering more than 55.

It is a highly specialised and professional service within the Government of India catering to economic analysis and policy advice.

[2] On the contrary, Prasanta Mahalanobis did not favour the idea of a combined Statistical and Economic Advisory Service.

The minimum eligibility criterion is a post graduate degree in Economics and allied subjects.