Source: The post 100 years of UPSC has been created, based on the article “A 100-year journey as the guardian of meritocracy” published in “The Hindu” on 1 October 2025. 100 years of UPSC.
UPSC Syllabus: GS-2– Appointment to various Constitutional Posts, Powers, Functions and Responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Context: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), established on 1st October 1926, marks its centenary as an institution synonymous with fairness, transparency, and integrity in recruitment. For over a hundred years, it has safeguarded the principle of meritocracy, inspiring trust among millions of aspirants.
Historical Evolution
- It was conceived first under the Government of India Act, 1919 and shaped by the Lee Commission (1924.
- The Public Service Commission evolved into the Federal PSC under the 1935 Act, and finally became the UPSC under the Constitution of India (1950).
- Colonial beginnings (1926–1935): The first Public Service Commission was set up under Sir Ross Barker with limited powers, functioning as an “experiment” in impartial recruitment.
- Federal stage (1935–1950): The Government of India Act, 1935, expanded its scope, enabling a stronger role for Indians in administration.
- Constitutional status (1950 onwards): Article 315 established the UPSC as an independent constitutional body, cementing its authority in recruitment, promotion, and disciplinary matters for All India and Central Services.
The Pillars of Trust, Integrity, and Fairness
UPSC’s credibility stems from:
- Transparency in procedure: Anonymous evaluation, multiple-subject examination, linguistic inclusivity.
- Integrity: Insulation from political interference and external pressure.
- Fairness: Equal opportunity across urban–rural divides, social backgrounds, and linguistic diversity.
This framework ensures that the exam is regarded as India’s true “level playing field” in an unequal society.
Reforms and Innovations
- Digital Portals for Applications: Digital Portals: UPSC has fully moved from paper to online portals, making applications more accessible, transparent, and cost-efficient while easing administrative work.
- Face-Recognition Technology: To prevent impersonation and exam fraud, UPSC uses biometric and face-recognition systems, ensuring only genuine candidates appear and safeguarding exam credibility.
- PRATIBHA Setu Initiative: Recognising the talent of candidates who reach the interview stage but do not make it to the final list, UPSC launched Professional Resource And Talent Integration Bridge for Hiring Aspirants (PRATIBHA Setu).
- Adoption of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Tools: UPSC is experimenting with AI-enabled systems for exam logistics, data management, and screening processes. AI tools are being tested for administrative efficiency, malpractice detection, and quick resolution of grievances.
Challenges Ahead
- Technological Disruptions: With the rapid rise of AI, big data, and digital surveillance technologies, UPSC faces the challenge of integrating innovation while safeguarding privacy.
- Global Competitiveness and New Skills: As India integrates deeper into the global economy, civil servants are required to manage issues like climate diplomacy, cybersecurity, AI governance, and global trade negotiations.
- Maintaining Inclusivity Amidst Inequalities: While digital reforms improve efficiency, they also risk excluding candidates from rural or economically weaker backgrounds who lack access to reliable internet, coaching, or technological tools.
- Balancing Confidentiality with Transparency: UPSC’s strength lies in the absolute confidentiality of question paper-setting and evaluation. However, the demand for greater transparency and accountability from aspirants is increasing.
Way Forward
- Continuous Digital Transformation: Use AI, blockchain, and secure digital evaluation systems to enhance efficiency and curb malpractice.
- Inclusive Outreach: Establish exam support centres in remote areas to bridge urban–rural divides.
- Curriculum Reforms: Align optional subjects and general studies with emerging fields such as technology governance, climate change, and AI ethics.
- Capacity Building: Provide regular training to evaluators, invigilators, and support staff to strengthen integrity at all stages.
- Diversified Assessment: Explore innovative assessment formats that test analytical ability, ethics, and adaptability beyond rote learning.
- Global Benchmarking: Collaborate with international testing institutions to maintain global standards in examination conduct.
- Transparency Enhancements: Periodic public audit of processes to strengthen aspirant trust.
Question: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has stood as a guardian of meritocracy for a century. In light of this, critically examine how UPSC has ensured fairness and inclusivity in recruitment while adapting to contemporary challenges
