Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Definition

The central constitutional body that conducts examinations and advises on recruitment to the All-India Services and the Central Services, including the CAPF (Assistant Commandants) exam.

Key points

• Established under Article 315; its functions are listed in Article 320.
• Conducts examinations for the All-India Services, Central Services, and forces (including the CAPF AC exam taken by aspirants of this wiki).
• Consists of a chairman and members appointed by the President; members hold office for six years or until 65 years.
• Advisory role: it advises on recruitment, promotions and disciplinary matters; its advice is not binding, and reasons for non-acceptance go to Parliament.
• A member can be removed by the President only on grounds of misbehaviour after a Supreme Court inquiry (Article 317), protecting independence.

Why it matters for CAPF

The UPSC conducts the CAPF AC examination itself, and Articles 315 to 323 (especially 315, 320, 317) are core constitutional-body facts.

Common confusion

The UPSC (Union, Art 315) is distinct from the State Public Service Commissions; its advice is advisory, not binding; do not confuse it with the Staff Selection Commission (a non-constitutional body).

Parent note

constitutional and statutory bodies