UPSC Centenary Year 2025–26: Celebrating 100 Years of Service and Legacy

Why in news ?

• The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has maintained the highest standards of merit, fairness, and transparency in India’s administrative system for 100 years.
• UPSC will celebrate its centenary year from 1 October 2025 to 1 October 2026.
• This year will honor the Commission’s recruitment process, administrative reforms, and contributions to public service.
• The centenary year aims not only to commemorate achievements of the past century but also to identify new opportunities for reforms and innovations in the coming years.

Introduction to UPSC Centenary Year:

• Celebration Period: 1 October 2025 – 1 October 2026
• Key Features:
  • Launch of a special logo and tagline for the centenary year.
  • Introduction of reforms in recruitment and examination processes.
  • Ensuring staff participation and implementing improvements based on suggestions.
  • Showcasing UPSC’s legacy and contribution to nation-building through public outreach programs.
• Announcement: UPSC Chairman Shri Ajay Kumar stated that this year is an opportunity to review legacy, conduct introspection for reforms, and plan for excellence in the next 100 years.

Historical Background:

• UPSC originated from the Government of India Act, 1919, and the Lee Commission (1924), which emphasized the need for an independent body for recruitment to higher civil services.
• Major Milestones:
  • 1 October 1926: Establishment of the Public Service Commission in India.
  • 1937: Renamed as Federal Public Service Commission under the Government of India Act, 1935.
  • 26 January 1950: Reconstituted as the Union Public Service Commission under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution.
• Over decades, UPSC has shaped India’s administrative framework as a guardian of merit-based recruitment.

Highlights of the Centenary Year:

1. Special Logo and Tagline: Symbolizing UPSC’s century-long service to the nation.
2. Recruitment and Examination Reforms: To enhance fairness, efficiency, and accessibility.
3. Staff Participation: Ensuring reforms through suggestions and ideas.
4. Public Outreach Programs: Demonstrating UPSC’s legacy and role in nation-building.

UPSC’s Legacy and Role:

• UPSC has stood for integrity, impartiality, and professionalism for 100 years.
• Conducted some of the most competitive examinations in the country.
• Ensured equal opportunities for candidates from diverse backgrounds.
• Adapted to changing administrative needs while upholding constitutional values.

Chairman’s Perspective:

• Chairman Shri Ajay Kumar emphasized that the centenary year is an opportunity to look back with pride, introspect for reforms, and plan for excellence in the next 100 years.
• This year will not only highlight UPSC’s achievements but also serve as a guide for future preparedness and reforms.