UPSC centenary: PM Modi addresses celebration at Bharat Mandapam
Why in the news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the centenary celebration of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 1 October 2026.
Key facts
- Centenary: UPSC was set up on 1 October 1926 and completed 100 years in 2026.
- Releases: a commemorative postage stamp, a special coin and a compilation of 100 important case laws.
- Exam cycle: the examination cycle has been shortened by roughly 100 days, easing the financial burden on candidates’ families.
- Women: women candidates rose from 3% in 1952 to over 30% now; three of the four women UPSC chairpersons were appointed after 2014.
- Participation: the number of candidates has grown more than 45 times since UPSC’s 50th year (1976).
- Governance mantra: the PM stressed Pro-People, Pro-Active, Good Governance and recruitment based on a spirit of public service.
| Indicator | Earlier | Now |
|---|---|---|
| Share of women candidates | 3% (1952) | Over 30% |
| Candidate numbers | Base year 1976 | Over 45 times higher |
About UPSC
UPSC began as the Public Service Commission in 1926 under British rule. It is now a constitutional body under Articles 315 to 323 of the Constitution and conducts examinations for the All India Services and over twenty Group A and Group B central services. The first chairman was Sir Ross Barker. The PM also recalled that Subhas Chandra Bose took part in the selection process in 1920.
Exam angle
- UPSC founded 1 October 1926; centenary on 1 October 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
- Stamp, coin and 100 case laws compilation released.
- UPSC is a constitutional body (Articles 315-323).