The Evolution of India's Public Service Commission: From PSC to UPSC
The Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a vital role in the governance of India, responsible for the recruitment and appointment of government employees at various levels. This article discusses the historical evolution of the PSC, which eventually became the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
Before Independence
1926: The Public Service Commission
On 1st October 1926, the Public Service Commission (PSC) was established. This body was initially set up to oversee the selection processes for public officials in British India. The aim was to ensure the merit-based recruitment of personnel for various government positions.
1937: The Federal Public Service Commission
By 1st April 1937, the Public Service Commission was restructured and renamed the Federal Public Service Commission. This change was necessary as the country was moving towards greater autonomy within the British Empire, presaging the eventual transition towards independence.
After Independence
With the arrival of independence on 15th August 1947, India adopted a new Constitution, which significantly shaped the governance structure, including the Public Service Commission.
Article 315 of the Indian Constitution
Following the constitution of India, a critical provision under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution states, 'Before the Administrator of any province and, subject to the provisions of the First Schedule, before the Governor of the Union Territories, there shall be a public service commission, which shall be headed by a chairman and shall consist of such other members as the President may appoint. The constitution of the Public Service Commission for a Union territory shall be made by an order of the President subject to the ratification of the Legislature of the Union territory if such Legislature exists. A majority of the members of the Commission shall at any time be such Indians as have had, or are having, substantial administrative experience in India. The salaries and allowances payable to or in respect of members of the Commission and all other expenditure in connection with the business of the Commission shall be chargeable on the Consolidated Fund of India. The Commission shall exercise its functions in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. The commission shall not cease to exist until a new commission has been installed. It may from time to time inspect the manner in which public servants are selected for appointment and promote in service, and its reports and recommendations, if any, shall be communicated to the President. An expression of opinion or recommendation of or by the Commission under this article shall be binding on the State in proceeding with selection, appointment or promotion of the public servants.' This provision laid the foundation for the appointment and management of public service commissions at both the union and provincial levels.
26th January 1950: The Birth of UPSC
On 26th January 1950, India adopted its Constitution, paving the way for the establishment of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). This new commission would oversee the recruitment and appointment process for civil and other services at the central level.
The Significance of the UPSC
The Union Public Service Commission continues to play a critical role in India's governance structure. Its primary responsibilities include managing the recruitment and appointment of civil services, conducting exams, and providing advice to the government on various issues related to public services.
Conclusion
The journey of India's Public Service Commission, from the initial PSC to the formation of the UPSC, reflects the evolution of the country's governance and administrative structures. This process underscores the commitment of the Indian government to merit-based recruitment and unbiased governance.