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[1st October 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: A 100-year journey as the guardian of meritocracy

op-ed snap | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

PYQ Relevance

[UPSC 2018] The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play. Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the range of powers he can exercise.

Linkage: Such constitutional bodies, like UPSC, completing 100 years, are often asked in exams, similar to questions on CAG’s appointment, tenure, and powers, highlighting the significance of understanding their independence and functions.

Mentor’s Comment

On October 1, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) completed a century of its establishment. From its inception under colonial rule to its present role as the guardian of meritocracy in independent India, the Commission has stood as a symbol of fairness, trust, and integrity in governance. As aspirants preparing for UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), understanding the history, philosophy, challenges, and reforms of this institution is vital — not just as knowledge, but also as inspiration for your own journey.

Introduction

The UPSC is more than an examining body; it is an institution that embodies the idea of equal opportunity, fairness, and trust in public life. Established in 1926, it has evolved through colonial, constitutional, and modern phases, transforming into one of the most complex yet respected recruitment agencies in the world. Conducting one of the toughest examinations with lakhs of aspirants each year, it ensures that merit alone decides entry into the highest echelons of governance. As the UPSC turns 100, this milestone is both a celebration of its legacy and a reflection on the road ahead.

The Historical Foundations of UPSC

  1. Colonial beginnings (1926): Set up as the Public Service Commission following the Lee Commission’s recommendations (1924), initially with limited powers.
  2. Government of India Act 1935: Elevated to Federal Public Service Commission, giving Indians a greater role.
  3. Constitutional status (1950): Became UPSC, enshrined in the Constitution as an independent institution to safeguard meritocracy.

What makes UPSC a Pillar of Fairness and Trust?

  1. Trust: Millions of aspirants rely on its transparency and impartiality; success depends solely on merit.
  2. Integrity: UPSC has remained insulated from political/external pressures, maintaining confidentiality and resisting malpractice.
  3. Fairness: Provides a level playing field — urban/rural, rich/poor, English/non-English — ensuring inclusivity in a diverse nation.
  4. Philosophy: Embodies the spirit of the Bhagavad Gītā — performing duty with rigor and detachment from outcomes.

Why is the UPSC Examination Unique Globally?

  1. Scale: From 10–12 lakh prelim applicants annually to final merit lists through multi-stage filtering.
  2. Diversity: 48 optional subjects, 22 languages, making it the world’s most sophisticated competitive exam.
  3. Logistics: Prelims across 2,500+ venues; complex distribution for Mains subject papers across the country.
  4. Equity: Special arrangements for differently-abled candidates.
  5. Resilience: Seamless functioning even during COVID-19.

How Has UPSC Expanded the ‘Indian Dream’?

  1. Democratization: Once elite-centric, now aspirants come from remotest districts and underprivileged regions.
  2. Opportunity: UPSC embodies the idea that talent + hard work can overcome barriers.
  3. Nation-building: Its selected civil servants have steered India through crises, reforms, environmental challenges, and growth.

Who are the Unsung Heroes Behind UPSC?

  1. Paper-setters and evaluators: Finest academics and experts, anonymous contributors ensuring fairness.
  2. Role: Guarantee quality, unbiased assessment, and rigorous standards, remaining away from recognition.

What Reforms Define UPSC’s Future-readiness?

  1. Digital modernization: Online application portal, face-recognition tech to prevent impersonation.
  2. PRATIBHA Setu initiative: Creates job opportunities for those who clear interview but miss the final list.
  3. Use of AI: To enhance efficiency and transparency without compromising integrity.
  4. Commitment: Adaptation to global disruptions in governance while preserving fairness.

Conclusion

The UPSC is not merely an examining authority; it is the guardian of meritocracy and a living institution embodying India’s faith in fairness and justice. As it celebrates its centenary, the challenge lies in preserving its values while adapting to a rapidly transforming world. For aspirants, the story of UPSC is not only an institutional history but also a guiding philosophy — to work with perseverance, detachment, and integrity.

Value Addition 

Constitutional Framework of UPSC (Articles 315–323)

Establishment (Art. 315)

  1. UPSC for the Union and State Public Service Commissions (SPSC) for each state.
  2. Ensures independent and impartial recruitment of civil servants.

Appointment of Members and Chairman (Art. 316)

  1. Chairman appointed by the President of India.
  2. Members appointed by the President.
  3. Qualifications: Not specified; expected to have experience in administration, academics, or law.

Removal and Suspension (Art. 317)

  • Chairman or members can only be removed by President on:
    1. Proven misbehavior (after Supreme Court inquiry)
    2. Incapacity
    3. Protection ensures independence from political pressure.

Conditions of Service (Art. 318)

  1. President regulates terms of service, pay, allowances, and pensions of chairman and members.
  2. Members can resign with prior notice.

Cessation of Office (Art. 319): Member ceases to hold office on:

  1. Completion of tenure
  2. Resignation
  3. Removal under Art. 317

Functions of UPSC (Art. 320)

  1. Recruitment: Conduct examinations for All India and Group A & B services.
  2. Promotions and Transfers: Advises government on appointments, promotions, and transfers.
  3. Disciplinary Matters: Advises on punishment or removal of civil servants.
  4. Advisory Role: Any service-related matters referred by the government.

Extension of Functions (Art. 321)

  1. Parliament or State Legislature can expand UPSC’s functions.

Budgetary Provisions (Art. 322)

  1. Expenses of UPSC charged on Consolidated Fund of India — ensures financial autonomy.

Reporting to President/Parliament (Art. 323)

  1. Annual and special reports submitted to President.
  2. President places them before Parliament along with comments.

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