UPSC: Navigating Integrity Challenges and Future Reforms

Understanding the UPSC and Its Role

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a constitutional body in India that conducts examinations to select candidates for various civil services, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the All India Services (AIS). Established in 1926 as the Federal Public Service Commission, it was renamed after India's Independence to reflect its broader mandate.

Controversies Impacting Credibility

Recent controversies have raised significant concerns regarding the credibility of the UPSC. Some key issues include:

• Forgery and Fraud: The case of trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who allegedly forged identity documents and a PwBD certificate, questions the integrity of the selection process. Khedkar managed to appear for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 12 times, exceeding the limit of nine attempts.
• Other Malpractices: In the 2021-22 period, eight cases of malpractices were reported, including submission of false documents and cheating. Allegations also include misuse of caste, disability, and EWS certificates for unfair advantages.

Steps Taken by UPSC to Enhance Integrity

In response to these challenges, the UPSC is implementing several technological solutions:

• Aadhaar-Based Authentication: The introduction of fingerprint and facial recognition systems aims to enhance verification processes.
• AI and Surveillance: The use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitored by artificial intelligence (AI) will help in overseeing examinations effectively.

Candidate Participation and Financial Overview

Data from the UPSC shows that out of 32.39 lakh candidates who applied for the 2022-23 exams, only 16.82 lakh attended, reflecting an attendance rate of 51.95%. Specifically, for CSE 2022, 5.73 lakh candidates participated from 11.35 lakh applicants, resulting in a 50.51% attendance rate.

Financially, the UPSC collected ₹142.92 crore in examination fees from 2017-18 to 2022-23 while spending ₹922.82 crore to conduct exams and interviews. Notably, women, PwBD candidates, and SC/ST candidates are exempt from examination fees.

Recommendations for Reforms

Various committees have previously made recommendations aimed at reforming the UPSC examination system:

• Baswan Committee (2015): Suggested comprehensive reforms to address high absenteeism rates and improve examination processes.
• Kothari Committee (1976): Observed that allocating candidates to different services before the Foundation Course created unhealthy competition.

Leadership Changes and Credibility Crisis

Manoj Soni, the chairperson of UPSC, resigned unexpectedly, five years prior to the end of his term in 2029, citing personal reasons. His resignation amid ongoing controversies has fueled allegations of being "nudged out" due to the current issues facing the Commission.

The UPSC is currently under scrutiny for several reasons:

• Cases of forgery and fraud, such as the incident involving Puja Khedkar.
• Increasing detection of malpractices within the examination process.
• Leadership instability following the chairperson's resignation.
• Public and political criticism regarding the Commission’s transparency and integrity.

To restore its reputation as a fair institution, the UPSC must implement stringent measures, leverage technological advancements, and embrace transparent practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What roles does the UPSC serve in India?
Answer: The UPSC conducts examinations for various civil services, including IAS and AIS, ensuring the recruitment of qualified candidates for governmental roles.

Q2. What technological measures is the UPSC implementing?
Answer: The UPSC is introducing Aadhaar-based authentication and AI surveillance to enhance examination integrity and reduce malpractices.

Q3. How many candidates appeared for the UPSC CSE in 2022?
Answer: For the CSE 2022, 5.73 lakh candidates appeared out of 11.35 lakh applicants, resulting in an attendance rate of about 50.51%.

Q4. What reforms have been proposed for UPSC exams?
Answer: Recommendations include comprehensive reforms suggested by the Baswan Committee in 2015 to tackle issues like absenteeism and competition among candidates.

Q5. Why is the UPSC facing a credibility crisis?
Answer: The credibility crisis stems from cases of fraud, increasing reports of malpractice, leadership instability, and public criticism regarding transparency.