Question

With reference to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), consider the following statements:

1. The UPSC is directly created by the Constitution as an independent body.

2. The chairman and members of the UPSC hold office for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 62 years, whichever is earlier.

3. The expenses of the UPSC are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India and are not subject to a vote in Parliament.

4. The UPSC is responsible for cadre management and training of All India Services officers.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• A. 1 and 3 only
• B. 1 and 2 only
• C. 2 and 4 only
• D. 1, 3, and 4 only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 and 3 only

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

• The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a central recruiting agency in India, established as an independent constitutional body.

• It is constituted under Part XIV of the Indian Constitution, specifically from Article 315 to Article 323. These articles detail its composition, appointment and removal of members, powers, and functions.

• The independence of UPSC is safeguarded by various constitutional provisions, ensuring its impartiality in recruitment.

• The Chairman and other members of the UPSC are appointed by the President of India.

• They hold office for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. This ensures continuity and experience in their roles.

• The salaries, allowances, and pensions of the Chairman and members of the UPSC are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India.

• Being 'charged' on the Consolidated Fund means these expenditures are not subject to a vote in the Parliament, although they can be discussed. This provision is crucial for maintaining the financial autonomy and independence of the Commission.

• The primary functions of the UPSC include:

  • Conducting examinations for appointments to All India Services, Central Services, and Public Services of the Union.

  • Advising the President on matters referred to it, such as disciplinary matters, promotions, transfers, and conditions of service for civil servants.

  • Assisting states (if requested by two or more states) in devising and operating schemes of joint recruitment for any services for which candidates possessing special qualifications are required.

• The cadre management and training of All India Services officers (like IAS, IPS, IFS) are primarily handled by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, and other respective ministries/departments, not by the UPSC. UPSC's role concludes largely with the recommendation of candidates after the selection process.

• The First Public Service Commission was set up on October 1, 1926, based on the recommendations of the Lee Commission (1923-24). After independence, it was renamed the Union Public Service Commission.