Current UPSC Chairman: Profile, Education

Chairman of UPSC

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) plays a pivotal role in India’s governance by recruiting top-level officers for the Government of India. At the helm of this prestigious institution is Dr. Manoj Soni, a distinguished educationalist and scholar who has been sworn in as the UPSC Chairman. In this article, we will delve into the life, career and achievements of Dr. Manoj Soni, shedding light on the individual entrusted with this significant responsibility.

Early Life and Education

Dr. Manoj Soni was born on 17^th February 1965, in Mumbai, India. His early years were marked by a strong academic inclination. He pursued his passion for education, ultimately leading him to a distinguished career in academia and public service.

Academic Journey

Dr. Soni’s academic journey has been illustrious. He is a scholar of political science with a specialization in international relations. Before ascending to the position of UPSC Chairman, he served as a professor, imparting knowledge and wisdom in the field of international relations at Sardar Patel University (SPU), Vallabh Vidhyanagar.

Leadership Roles

Over the years, Dr. Manoj Soni has held various leadership roles that have shaped his career and prepared him for the challenging task of leading UPSC. Some of his notable positions include:

• Vice-Chancellor: Soni has served as the Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) and Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU Baroda). His leadership in these prestigious institutions contributed to their growth and development.
• Board Memberships: He has also been a part of the boards of governors of several higher education and public administration institutions. His insights and expertise have influenced the direction and policies of these institutions.
• Anoopam Mission: In a unique facet of his life, Dr. Soni serves as a monk , known as a Nishkam Karmayogi (selfless worker), in the Anoopam Mission of the Swaminarayan movement in Gujarat. This reflects his commitment to spirituality and selfless service.

Recognitions and Awards

Dr. Manoj Soni’s contributions to education and leadership have not gone unnoticed. In 2015, he received the World Education Congress Global Award for distance learning leadership from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants in London, United Kingdom. This award recognized his outstanding leadership in the field of distance learning.

Appointment as UPSC Chairman

Dr. Soni’s journey to the position of UPSC Chairman began when he joined the Commission on June 28, 2017. He assumed the role of Chairman of UPSC on 5^th April 2022, succeeding his predecessor, Pradeep Kumar Joshi. His appointment as UPSC Chairman was an evident to his dedication, knowledge and leadership qualities.

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