Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) celebrated its centenary, the ‘Shatabdi Sammelan’, on 26th–27th November 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event marked 100 years of the Commission's contribution to nation-building. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State, lauded UPSC as the “guardian of India’s steel frame of governance.” The event was attended by dignitaries including Shri Om Birla, Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha, and Dr. Ajay Kumar, UPSC Chairman.
Key Highlights
- Dr. Jitendra Singh’s Address: He emphasized that UPSC has been a pillar of integrity, fairness, and transparency throughout India’s democratic journey.
- Historical Context: The year 2025 marks the 150th birth anniversaries of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, and 150 years of Vande Mataram.
- ‘Pratibha Setu’ Portal: Dr. Singh commended UPSC’s ‘Pratibha Setu’ portal, which connects candidates who cleared Civil Services examination stages but did not make the final selection with private sector and institutional opportunities.
- Lok Sabha Speaker’s Address: Shri Om Birla highlighted UPSC’s embodiment of transparency, impartiality, confidentiality, and accountability.
UPSC's Role and Significance
UPSC has played a crucial role in:
- Framing and updating service rules.
- Reviewing administrative practices.
- Setting ethical standards for public service.
Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed confidence that the architects of Viksit Bharat @2047 will emerge from UPSC.
‘Shatabdi Sammelan’ Details
- The conclave brought together present and former Chairpersons and Members of UPSC and State Public Service Commissions (PSCs).
- Senior officials from across the Government of India, scholars, and distinguished personalities associated with governance and public administration also participated.
Key Statements
- Dr. Ajay Kumar: Reaffirmed UPSC’s commitment to fairness, meritocracy, and equity in recruitment, examination, and promotion systems.
- Shri Om Birla: Stated that UPSC has set global benchmarks in impartiality and integrity.
UPSC Relevance for Civil Services Exam
This news is highly relevant for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, particularly for:
- GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice.
- GS Paper III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development, and employment.
- Essay paper: Topics related to ethics, governance, and the role of civil services.
Potential Exam Questions
- Prelims: Factual questions about the ‘Pratibha Setu’ portal, the centenary year, and key figures associated with UPSC.
- Mains: Analytical questions on the role of UPSC in maintaining meritocracy, adapting to changing governance needs, and ensuring ethical standards in public service.