UPSC to Celebrate 100 Years of Service: Centenary Year to Begin October 2025

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), India’s premier recruitment body for senior government services, will mark 100 years of its existence with a year-long Centenary Year celebration starting 1 October 2025 and concluding on 1 October 2026.

Chairman Shri Ajay Kumar announced that the celebrations will include special events, a commemorative logo, and new reforms aimed at further strengthening transparency, fairness, and meritocracy in recruitment.

Historical Background

The UPSC’s origins date back to the Government of India Act, 1919 and the recommendations of the Lee Commission (1924), which emphasized the need for an independent body to recruit for higher civil services.

Key historical milestones,

• 1 October 1926: Public Service Commission established in India.
• 1937: Renamed Federal Public Service Commission under the Government of India Act, 1935.
• 26 January 1950: Became the Union Public Service Commission under the Constitution of India (Article 315).
• Over the decades, UPSC has remained the guardian of merit-based recruitment, playing a pivotal role in shaping India’s administrative framework.

Centenary Year Highlights

The Centenary celebrations will reflect both heritage and modernization,

• Launch of a special logo and tagline symbolizing UPSC’s century-long service to the nation.
• New reforms in recruitment and examination processes to enhance fairness, efficiency, and reach.
• Employee participation through suggestions, ensuring that the celebrations reflect the views of those who serve within the institution.
• Public outreach programs to showcase UPSC’s legacy and role in nation-building.

UPSC’s Legacy and Role

For a century, the UPSC has stood for integrity, impartiality, and professionalism. It has,

• Conducted some of the most competitive exams in the country.
• Ensured equal opportunity for aspirants from diverse backgrounds.
• Adapted to changing administrative needs while upholding constitutional values.
• Chairman Shri Ajay Kumar emphasized that the Centenary Year is a time to look back with pride, introspect for improvement, and plan for the next 100 years of excellence.