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SDM Full Form

SDM Full Form

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 18, 2023 11:51 AM IST

What is the full form of SDM?

SDM Full Form - The full form of SDM is Sub Divisional Magistrate. District division creates subdivisions. Based on the organization of a nation's government, the SDM, an administrative officer frequently below the district level, is in charge of the subdivision. An SDM uses the collector's and the executive magistrate's authority. A junior member of the Indian Administrative Service or a senior officer of the State Civil Services with relevant experience in lower positions can serve as SDMs. Under the 1973 Criminal Procedure Code, the SDM performs various magisterial functions and other smaller tasks. Typically, it is a PCS ranking officer. All tehsils or subdivisions will be under the supervision of the SDM, authorized by the Collector Magistrate and Tax Inspector. SDM serves as the District Officer's primary point of contact with the Tahsildars in his subdivision and has complete authority over them.

Functions of SDM

Three tasks should receive the Subdivision magistrate's immediate attention:

  • Revenue Functions

  • Superior Functions

  • Calamity Functions

Revenue Functions: The upkeep of land records, revenue cases, handling of demarcation and mutations, financial administration, and custody of public land are all aspects of revenue activities. Following the regulations established by the Sub-office, Registrar's SDM is also involved in registering assets, sales, powers of attorney, shares, and other relevant documents. Deputy commissioners supervise the sub-registrars and serve as registrars for their allocated districts.

Superior Functions: Executive Magistrates' authority is replaced by that of SDM. They are in charge of managing the Code of Criminal Procedure's defensive segments in this capacity. They also oversee the unnatural deaths of women after marriage and, if necessary, give instructions to the police for additional questioning. SDM investigates deaths in prisons, jails, and homes for women. Additionally, they serve as the government's and the police's eyes and ears in cases involving significant fires, natural disasters, and riots over political issues.

Calamity Functions: Relief and rehabilitation are handled by this division. Natural and artificial disasters will also be addressed. With the aid of UN development, it is in charge of creating disaster management plans and raising awareness about being ready to handle any calamity.

Other roles of SDM

In addition to those duties, the sub-divisional magistrate also participates in the following:

  • Election-related Work

  • Issuing a driving license

  • Issuing caste and domicile certificate

  • Registration of Vehicle and Marriage

How to become SDM

  • The candidate needs to have a Graduation Degree from recognized Educational Institution.

  • He/She need to appear for Civil Services Examination and clear the exam.

  • After clearing the IAS exam, SDM is the first post offered to any candidate.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the stages of civil service examination?

The three stages are: Preliminary (Objective), Mains (Written) examination and Interview and Personality Test.

2. What is the eligibility criteria of becoming a SDM?

The criteria includes: 

  • Nationality: Should be an Indian citizen

  • Upper age limit: 32 yrs

  • Lower age limit: 21 yrs

  • Should hold a graduate degree

  • Should be physically fit as per the standards

3. How many attempts are allowed for SDM examination?

A candidate can appear 6 times.

4. What are the revenue related functions of SDM?

Revenue related tasks of SDM are:

  • Assessment and collection of land revenue

  • Maintaining coordination among Agriculture, Public Health, Animal Husbandry departments

5. What is the basic pay of SDM?

With 1-4yrs of service, SDM earn INR 56,100 per month.


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