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The full form of UPSC is the Union Public Service Commission. The UPSC is India’s central recruiting agency responsible for conducting prestigious examinations like the Civil Services Examination (CSE), Indian Forest Service (IFoS), Engineering Services Examination (ESE), and others. Established under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution, the UPSC ensures merit-based selection of candidates for top administrative positions in the Government of India.
UPSC Full Form
UPSC stands for Union Public Service Commission. It is a constitutional body established to conduct examinations for appointments to the All India Services and Group A & B of the Central Services. The UPSC is known for organizing the Civil Services Examination (CSE), which recruits officers for IAS, IPS, IFS, and other central services. It operates under the authority of Article 315 to 323 of the Indian Constitution, ensuring transparency and fairness in the recruitment process.
UPSC Full Form and Basic Details
The UPSC, or Union Public Service Commission, is a constitutional body responsible for conducting prestigious examinations like the Civil Services Examination in India. It was established under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution and plays a key role in recruiting officers for various All India and Central Services.
UPSC Full Form and Basic Details | |||
| Term | Full Form | Type | Established Under |
| UPSC | Union Public Service Commission | Constitutional Body | Article 315 |
History and Constitutional Background of UPSC
- Constitutional Status: UPSC derives its authority from Part XIV of the Indian Constitution, especially Articles 315 to 323.
Origin: The concept originated with the Lee Commission (1923–24) under British rule, recommending a Public Service Commission for India. - Established On: 1st October 1926, officially reconstituted as the Federal Public Service Commission, later became UPSC after Independence.
Structure of UPSC
The structure of UPSC comprises a Chairman and up to ten Members, all appointed by the President of India. These members serve a tenure of six years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
- Chairman: Appointed by the President of India.
- Members: The Commission comprises a Chairman and up to 10 Members.
- Tenure: 6 years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
- Current UPSC Chairman (as of 2025): Dr. Ajay Kumar
Role and Functions of UPSC under Article 320
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) plays a pivotal role in India’s bureaucratic framework by ensuring merit-based and transparent recruitment for various government services. Its primary function is to conduct examinations for appointments to the All India Services and Central Civil Services, such as the IAS, IPS, and IFS.
- Conducts Civil Services Examination (CSE) for IAS, IPS, IFS, etc.
- Organizes Indian Forest Service, Engineering Services, Combined Medical Services, CDS, NDA, and other exams.
- Advises the President on matters related to recruitment rules, promotions, and transfers.
- Handles disciplinary matters concerning civil servants.
Popular Exams Conducted by UPSC
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts several prestigious examinations in India to recruit candidates for various civil and defense services.These exams are known for their rigor and national importance.
| Exam Name | Purpose |
| Civil Services Examination (CSE) | For IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, and other Group A posts |
| Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Exam | Recruitment for Forest Officers |
| Engineering Services Examination (ESE) | Recruitment for Engineers in Central Govt. Depts |
| Combined Medical Services (CMS) | For doctors in govt. health services |
| NDA & NA Examination | Entry to National Defence Academy |
| CDS Examination | Entry to Indian Military Academy, OTA, etc. |
UPSC vs State Public Service Commissions (SPSC)
The UPSC conducts exams for All India and Central Services, while State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs) handle recruitment for state-level posts. Both are constitutional bodies established under Article 315, but operate at different administrative levels.
UPSC vs State Public Service Commissions (SPSC) | ||
| Feature | UPSC | SPSC |
| Scope | All India & Central Services | State-level services |
| Established Under | Article 315 | Article 315 |
| Example | UPSC (National) | UPPSC, MPSC, BPSC, etc. |
| Appointing Authority | President of India | Governor of the respective state |
UPSC Full Form FAQs
What is the full form of UPSC?
UPSC stands for Union Public Service Commission.
Is UPSC a constitutional body?
Yes, UPSC is a constitutional body formed under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution.
Which exam does UPSC conduct for IAS?
The Civil Services Examination (CSE) is conducted by UPSC to recruit IAS officers.
Who is the current chairman of UPSC?
Dr. Ajay Kumar Assumes Charge as Chairman, Union Public Service Commission.
Where is the UPSC headquarters located?
The UPSC headquarters is located in Dholpur House, New Delhi, India.
How many attempts are allowed in UPSC CSE?
General category candidates get 6 attempts till the age of 32.
