The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will mark its centenary on October 1, 2026, having been established in 1926 as India’s first Public Service Commission. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officiate the closing ceremony at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, commencing at 11 am. As part of the event, a commemorative coin and stamp celebrating the UPSC’s 100-year journey will be unveiled.

Meanwhile, the body will also the release of a book titled ‘100 Landmark Judgements – Shaping the Policies of UPSC and Public Service Commissions in India’. The two-day celebrations kicked off on September 30 with an event titled ‘Shatabdi Samaroh – Manthan’. This included notable speakers and panel discussions centred around public service and recruitment practices. The discussions are expected to attract attention from various stakeholders in the public administration sphere.

From Public Service Commission To UPSC

The origins of the Public Service Commission date back to October 1, 1926, in line with recommendations from the Royal Commission on the Superior Civil Services in India, under the chairmanship of Lord Lee. The inaugural commission was led by Sir Ross Barker and initially functioned as an advisory body with limited powers. Over time, the institutional framework underwent substantial changes as the Government of India Act, 1935.

It permitted the formation of the Federal Public Service Commission. Following India’s Independence, the Federal Public Service Commission transitioned into the Union Public Service Commission. The Indian Constitution, effective from January 26, 1950, conferred constitutional status upon the UPSC, establishing its significance in the governance of civil services.

Constitutional Mandate And Functions Of UPSC

The UPSC is a constitutional body under Part XIV, Chapter II of the Indian Constitution. Article 315 establishes the framework for Public Service Commissions for both the Union and the States, while subsequent articles cover aspects such as the appointment, tenure, removal, and functions of its members. This legal foundation underpins the Commission’s vital role in recruitment and administrative matters relating to public services.

As outlined in Article 320 of the Constitution, the UPSC’s primary functions include conducting examinations for recruitment into Union services. It handles direct recruitments through selection processes and interviews while also providing advice to the Government on promotions, disciplinary issues, and recruitment rules. Additionally, it may offer counsel on subjects referred by the President. Among its key responsibilities, the Civil Services Examination (CSE) stands out as the major examination conducted by the UPSC.

This examination consists of three phases: preliminary examination, main examination, and personality test. The Commission also facilitates various other examinations, such as those for the Engineering Services, Combined Defence Services, National Defence Academy, Combined Medical Services, Central Armed Police Forces, Indian Forest Service, and Indian Economic Statistical Services. As UPSC commemorates its 100-year journey, it reflects upon its evolution from a basic advisory body to a constitutional authority pivotal in civil service recruitment.

The ongoing centenary celebrations serve to highlight not only the achievements of the Commission but also its continuing relevance in shaping public administration in India. The forthcoming release of a commemorative coin, stamp, and book on October 1 will reinforce the importance of the UPSC in the nation’s governance and public service framework, marking a significant milestone in its enduring legacy.

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