Ajay Kumar Appointed New Chairman of UPSC

Ajay Kumar Appointed New Chairman of UPSC

Why in News ?

Dr. Ajay Kumar, former Defence Secretary, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) by President Droupadi Murmu. His tenure will commence on the day he officially assumes charge of the post.

Ajay Kumar Appointed New Chairman of UPSC

 Profile of Dr. Ajay Kumar:

  • Ajay Kumar is a retired IAS officer of the 1985 batch, Kerala cadre.
  • He brings decades of administrative experience to his new role at the UPSC.
  • Served as Defence Secretary from August 2019 to October 2022, during which key defence reforms were undertaken.
  • Known for his contributions to defence modernisation and technology integration.

Appointment Details

  • Appointed by President Droupadi Murmu as per the Order from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
  • His tenure as Chairman begins from the date he assumes charge.
  • Fills the post following the retirement of the previous Chairman.
  • Tasked with overseeing the civil services examination and other national recruitment processes.

Role and Importance of UPSC

  • UPSC is India’s central recruitment agency for civil services and defence services.
  • The Chairman leads the constitutional body responsible for selecting India’s future administrators.
  • Kumar’s leadership expected to bring in policy continuity and technological innovation in UPSC functioning.
  • His appointment comes amid growing emphasis on transparent and efficient recruitment in public services.

About the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC):

●     UPSC is a constitutional body under Articles 315-323 of the Indian Constitution.

●     The Chairman and members are appointed by the President of India.

●     Members serve a 6-year term or until 65 years of age, whichever is earlier.

●     No re-appointment after completing a term.

●     Members can resign by writing to the President.

●     Removal/suspension is by Presidential order, with Supreme Court reference if suspended.

●     Removal reasons: bankruptcy, paid outside employment, or mental/physical infirmity.

●     The President regulates number, service conditions, and staff of the UPSC.

●     Expenses come from the Consolidated Fund of India.

●     UPSC submits an annual report to the President and explains cases where its advice is not accepted.