Overview of Public Service Commissions in India

The Telangana State Public Service Commission is hosting the 2025 national conference for chairpersons of State Public Service Commissions (PSCs) amid ongoing controversies surrounding examination processes. These issues highlight systemic lapses in the PSCs, necessitating discussions on structural and procedural reforms.

Historical Context

• The concept of PSCs emerged from India's struggle for independence, with the demand for merit-based entry into civil services.
• The Government of India Act, 1935 established PSCs for each province, which continued post-independence.
• Today, India has a Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and individual State PSCs.

Operational Differences between UPSC and State PSCs

UPSC:

• Functions in a politically neutral environment.
• Appointments are merit-based, ensuring representation from all zones, and members are typically over 55 with substantial public experience.
• Supported by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions since 1985.
• Regularly conducts exams and updates syllabi via diverse committees.

State PSCs:

• Operate in politically influenced environments, often lacking merit-based appointments.
• Do not have a dedicated personnel ministry, leading to irregular vacancy notifications and recruitment processes.
• Face challenges in balancing transparency and confidentiality, leading to frequent judicial interventions.

Challenges and Proposed Reforms

• Manpower Planning: Establish a dedicated ministry for personnel management with a clear recruitment roadmap.
• Appointments:
  • Amend the Constitution to fix the minimum and maximum age for State PSC members at 55 and 65, respectively.
  • Specify necessary qualifications for official and non-official members.
  • Consider pre-consultation with the opposition leader for non-official member appointments.
• Syllabus and Examination Revisions:
  • Periodically update the syllabus, considering public input and aligning with UPSC standards.
  • Incorporate objective formats for region-specific subjects and mix objective and subjective formats for main exams.
  • Enhance translation accuracy and counteract AI influences on exam answers.
• Leadership and Supervision: Appoint senior officers with experience in education for effective exam management.
• Balance transparency and confidentiality similar to UPSC practices.

Implementing these reforms is crucial for revitalizing State PSCs to match the efficiency and credibility of the UPSC, restoring trust among aspirants and the public.