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.