Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is the backbone of India’s civil services system. It ensures that recruitment to top government posts remains fair, transparent, and merit-based. Knowing its structure, powers, and limitations is essential for every aspirant and citizen.
If you are preparing for civil services or simply want to understand how India’s top recruitment body works, this article gives you everything you need to know about the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)—from its formation to its powers, duties, and structure.
What is UPSC?
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India’s central recruitment agency, established under Part XIV of the Constitution (Articles 315 to 323). It handles recruitment and advisory responsibilities for appointments to the civil services and other central government posts.
Founded: Originally as Public Service Commission in 1926
Recommended by: Lee Commission
Reconstituted: In 1935 under the Government of India Act as the Federal Public Service Commission
Renamed: Union Public Service Commission in 1947
UPSC Structure – Composition, Tenure, and Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Constitutional Basis | Article 315–323 (Part XIV of the Constitution) |
| Nature | Constitutional body |
| Chairman + Members | Appointed by the President of India |
| Minimum Qualifications | 50% of members must have held govt. office for at least 10 years |
| Tenure | 6 years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier |
| Resignation | By written letter addressed to the President |
| Reappointment | Not allowed for Chairman; Members may be appointed as Chairman (UPSC/SPSC) |
When Can a Member Be Removed?
The President can remove a UPSC Chairman or member only under specific conditions:
- Insolvency (declared bankrupt)
- Physical or mental incapacity
- Misbehavior or incapacity (on advice from the Supreme Court)
- Paid employment outside office duties (prohibited)
This strict removal procedure ensures independence from political influence.
Functions of UPSC
UPSC is not just an exam-conducting body. It plays a much broader role in maintaining transparency and efficiency in recruitment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct exams for direct recruitment (like IAS, IPS, IFS, etc.)
- Recruit officers by promotion, deputation, or absorption
- Handle disciplinary matters related to civil servants
- Advise the government on:
- Recruitment rules
- Promotions and transfers
- Service conditions
Note: UPSC’s advice is non-binding, but ministries cannot ignore it arbitrarily.
Presidential & Parliamentary Powers
- President may exclude specific posts from UPSC’s purview.
- Parliament may expand the Commission’s functions via legislation.
- UPSC must submit an annual report to the President, which is laid before Parliament.
Limitations of UPSC
While UPSC plays a key role in recruitment, it does not have authority over:
- Reservation policies for SCs, STs, OBCs
- Recruitment to temporary or ad hoc posts
- Transfers and postings not involving selection or promotion
- State Government Services (handled by respective SPSC)
And importantly:
Irregular consultation with UPSC doesn’t invalidate government decisions.
Exam Functions of UPSC
UPSC conducts several recruitment exams including:
- Civil Services Examination (IAS, IPS, IFS)
- Engineering Services Exam (ESE)
- Combined Defence Services (CDS)
- National Defence Academy (NDA)
- Combined Medical Services (CMS)
- Indian Economic/Statistical Services (IES/ISS)
- Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)
FAQs
Q1: Is UPSC a statutory or constitutional body?
It’s a Constitutional body under Article 315–323.
Q2: Can the UPSC Chairman be reappointed?
No. Once retired, the Chairman cannot be reappointed or re-employed by central or state governments.
Q3: Is UPSC’s advice always binding on the government?
No, it’s advisory. But individual ministries must record reasons if they choose to not follow it.
Q4: Can Parliament modify UPSC’s powers?
Yes, by law, Parliament can extend or modify UPSC’s functions.
Q5: Does UPSC handle state government recruitments?
No. Each state has its own Public Service Commission (SPSC).
